Improving Attention Spans in An Attention-Deficit World

Improving Attention Spans in An Attention-Deficit World

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In today’s fast-moving world, distractions are everywhere. For young children in play group age, these distractions can make it harder for them to focus, learn, and develop important skills. Parents often wonder how they can help their children build better attention spans when gadgets, noisy environments, and constant interruptions are part of daily life.

With a few simple changes, you can help your child improve their attention span and stay focused. It’s not just about limiting gadgets but also about creating a healthy balance.

Why do Attention Spans Matter?

Attention span is the ability to focus on one thing for a certain amount of time. For preschoolers, this might mean sitting still during storytime, finishing a puzzle, or listening to simple instructions. These can help them develop:

  • Learning Skills: Process and retain information
  • Self-Control: Build patience and perseverance
  • Social Skills: Form connections with others

Common Causes of Short Attention Spans

In this digital age, several things can make it harder for children to focus. 

1. Screen Time: Watching TV or playing on tablets for long periods can overstimulate a child’s brain, making it harder to focus on slower activities like reading or drawing.

2. Overloaded Schedules: If a child is constantly moved from one activity to the next, they might not have enough downtime to rest and refocus.

3. Lack of Routine: Having an unpredictable schedule will confuse them as they would not know what to expect, making it difficult for them to transition between activities.

Tips to Improve Attention Spans

Dr. Swati Vats, the co-founder of Podar Prep Preschool, suggests observing your children for 2-3 days to understand their behaviour and how you can help. The goal is not to push them too hard but to guide them gently. Follow these few simple steps every day to help your preschooler focus better:

1. Distraction-Free Space: Set up a quiet, gadget-free area where your child can play or do activities. 

2. Limited Screen Time: Screen time isn’t bad in small doses. Stick to age-appropriate content and set time limits, such as 30 minutes a day.

3. Open-Ended Play: Toys like building blocks, puzzles, and colouring books encourage creativity and focus. Let your child take the lead and explore at their own pace.

4. Daily Storytime: Choose short, engaging books and involve your child by asking questions about the story.

5. Physical Activity: Active play, like running, jumping, or dancing, helps them release energy, making it easier for them to settle down and focus later.

6. Consistent Routine: Predictable routines give them a sense of security. For example, having a set time for meals, play, and bedtime helps them transition smoothly.

7. Lead by Example: They can learn by watching their parents. When you focus on one task—like reading or cooking—they’re more likely to copy your behaviour.

Be Patient and Celebrate Progress

Remember, every child is different, and attention spans grow with time and practice. If your child struggles to stay focused, that’s okay. Celebrate small victories, like sitting through a short story or finishing a puzzle, and build on those successes.

By creating a balanced, nurturing environment, you can help your child thrive in today’s fast-paced world. Start with small changes, and watch as they discover the joys of learning and play with time.At Podar Preschool, we follow a holistic approach, giving children a routine with plenty of physical activities to enjoy with their peers so that they can recognise a world outside digital space. Enrol your children today!

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