It is not surprising that a child has difficulty concentrating while doing homework. Children are constantly stimulated by stimuli from social media, video games, online chat messages and so on.

All that stimulation teaches a child to get distracted easily. Experts recommend a few simple strategies to stay focused, which work just as well for adults as they do for children, and for those with or without sensory issues!

We at HappyKido have listed a number of these effective strategies for you.

1. Create the right space

The first strategy involves creating the right space for homework. Choose a space with minimal distractions so your child(ren) can do their homework undisturbed. Turn off phones, TVs, and other devices. As your children get older, try apps that automatically turn off internet access after a certain time.

Creating absolute silence in a room is not always the most suitable strategy. Many children do best with background music, of course this is possible. If something works, do it!

2. Divide the tasks

Large homework assignments can be daunting, but breaking an assignment into smaller tasks and tackling them one at a time can make them more manageable and less overwhelming.

Of course, dividing tasks also works for household chores. Try to limit household instructions to one or two at a time. This will make your child more likely to help with these chores, because it will be seen as less work.

Another effective strategy is to make a to-do list. By making a to-do list, a child feels less overwhelmed by the size of the homework assignment or household chores. In this case, the list creates structure and a sense of calm for your child. Now the assignments can be tackled in order.

The to-do list might look like this:

• Gathering information
• Reading/researching
• Taking notes
• Determine a theme
• Making a sketch
• Writing the piece
• Read more
• Check

3. Set a timer

Homework can be extra annoying when your child doesn’t know how long they have to do it. Setting a timer while doing homework will help your child know exactly how long they have to concentrate before the next break. This will make homework more bearable.

4. Mindfulness

An important factor in concentration is mindfulness. Mindfulness means consciously paying attention to what you are doing, instead of letting your mind wander. Controlled breathing is beneficial for mindfulness. Even breathing in and out a few times before studying or taking a test, research shows, can improve concentration.

5. Fidgeting 

There are so many different fidget toys you can try. Research shows that these types of toys are very effective at blocking distractions, fighting boredom, reducing anxiety and improving concentration.

Reading tip: Sensory toys: What are they?

6. Giving compliments

Poor concentration can be very discouraging for a child. Always make sure to praise your child's hard work, compliment your child regularly, and point out your child's strengths regularly. By doing this, you will build confidence and motivation to keep trying.

7. A good diet 

A good diet contributes to a super sharp focus. Why? Processed foods often contain a lot of salt, which can increase blood pressure, causing the heart to beat faster. The body releases adrenaline into the bloodstream and boom! Anxiety increases and it becomes harder to concentrate

It is not necessary to change your child’s entire diet right away, just adding more natural foods can make their diet a lot better. For example, broccoli is rich in potassium, folic acid, calcium and vitamin C. Broccoli is not only high in dietary fiber but also contains a powerful phytochemical called sulforaphane, which can help improve concentration and reduce the risk of cancer. Freshly ground mustard seeds are also a rich source of sulforaphane if your child really doesn’t like broccoli.

Let us know what you think of these strategies!