Though you might see your child focusing intently on a computer game, television program, or something else that is highly engaging, that is not the measure of attending. Rather, it’s the ability to focus at will, especially when needed at school. In our fast-paced world full of distractions, it is becoming increasingly harder for kids to focus. 

Many teachers need guidance on how to improve, engage or encourage attention from their students. These issues can increase with neurological challenges, including ADHD. Providing a “brain break” activity allows children time to rest and reset their brains. Any of the activities below can be used during the school day or before homework to rest the brain so that kids are able to truly attend to learning.

1. Object Mindfulness

Try the 2-minute challenge– choose an object in the room and stare at it for two minutes. This mindfulness exercise helps improve attention by training the brain to focus on one thing for a sustained period, gradually increasing the ability to concentrate. This is particularly helpful for children with ADHD. If your child is struggling to focus, then choose a favorite stuffed animal or toy as the object to keep them more engaged. 

4. Memory Games

Memory games are great for learning to attend. Use the Find Me™ Lap Padsto test children’s ability to remember which animals they saw. Set up theRainbow Stackers then take it apart for your kids to try and recreate from memory. These games enhance working memory, which is crucial for maintaining focus and recalling information. By improving better working memory you can improve their overall attention span.

5. Freeze Games

Put on upbeat music, move around the room and yell "freeze." This type of game encourages listening skills and attention. You can add to the challenge by giving a specific pose to freeze in, such as standing like a tree or a dog. It requires children to listen carefully and respond quickly to your directive to “freeze,” while they are working on impulse control and only taking the position you call out.

6. Where’s the Timer?

Take an auditory timer, such as the Time Timer Twist, set it for one minute and then hide it. When it goes off, ask your child where the sound is coming from. This game will encourage auditory attention. This activity trains children to focus on auditory cues, sharpening their ability to listen and respond to sounds in their environment and help improve listening skills.

7. Game Time

Playing structured games teaches patience, turn-taking, and rule-following, all of which are essential skills for maintaining attention. These games can also build social and cognitive skills that are often delayed in kids with ADHD.

8. Coordination Builders

Playing catch with balls or Hand-Eye Coordination Scarves, or completing puzzles like the Magnetic Puzzle Fidget, encourages hand-eye coordination. These games improve motor skills and coordination, which are linked to better cognitive function and attentional control. For children with ADHD, these activities can help channel their energy in a positive way.

9. Chores

Many household chores encourage heavy work and attention. You can make it more fun by gamifying the chore or adding in music so that kids can work to the beat. Performing chores also teaches responsibility and routine, which can enhance focus and organizational skills. Though beneficial for all children, having a structured chore routine can be particularly beneficial for kids with ADHD.

10. Ask Questions

Regularly ask questions to maintain and build attention. Asking questions keeps children engaged and ensures they are processing and understanding the information, thus improving attention and comprehension. This is especially important for children with ADHD, who may need more frequent check-ins.

11. Act It Out

Have children act out something they learned. This engages their creativity and helps them pay better attention. Acting out information reinforces learning through physical activity and imagination, making it easier to recall and understand. For children with ADHD, this can be a fun and engaging way to reinforce lessons through multi-sensory learning.

12. Describe It Out Loud

Verbal repetition aids memory retention and comprehension, encouraging children to pay closer attention to details. By repeating information when asked to describe what they learned, children’s understanding is solidified more. This can be particularly helpful for children with ADHD who may benefit from additional verbal processing.

13. Exercise

Exercise is great for both the body and the brain. Movement creates endorphins and increases blood flow to the brain, helping kids stay on task. Jumping on a trampoline, creating anobstacle course or engaging in some yoga moves are just a few of the ways to incorporate movement for your kids. Physical activity boosts cognitive function and reduces stress, making it easier to focus. Regular exercise can help manage ADHD symptoms and improve overall well-being.

14. Breathing

When things get tough, have children stop and take a breather. Taking 5 deep breaths in and out helps bring their attention back to themselves. Deep breathing exercises calm the nervous system, reducing anxiety and helping to refocus attention. This can be a simple and effective tool to regain focus for the whole class.

Attention is a skill that can be nurtured and developed with practice and patience. By incorporating these tips into daily routines, you can help your child improve their ability to focus and attend. Remember, every child is unique and what works for one may not work for another. Stay supportive and patient, celebrating small victories along the way. With consistent effort, you can help your child build stronger attention and focus, enhancing their learning and daily experiences. Children with ADHD may require additional support and understanding, but with the right strategies, they can thrive and succeed. 

Explore our range of sensory tools for children with ADHD to find the best ones for your child.