So often in today’s modern world, adults and children alike crave constant stimulation. Whereas adults brains have developed executive function, or the ability to self-monitor, children’s brains are still learning skills and behaviors to help with impulse control, focusing, and self-regulation. In today’s world of iPads and video games, how can parents offer exciting activities to engage young children while simultaneously require some effort to actively focus?
Focusing is an active skill that one must learn. Research continues to try to explain the difference between learning from a screen and learning with tangible objects, or “the old-fashion way”. Since we have decades of research telling us that early childhood skills strongly influence adult tendencies, caregivers can and should foster children’s ability to focus. By understanding “focus” as a learned skill rather than assume it’s an inborn ability, caregivers can provide children opportunities to practice.
In order for young children to practice focus, an activity must first capture their attention. Novel situations, experiences, and toys are most likely to peak their interest. Caregivers should consider children’s preferences such as favorite songs, toys, and activities. Keeping in mind these ideas, and the ideas listed, parents can create fun new experiences to incentivize kids to focus on a certain object or activity. Four year-olds should be able to sit at an engaging activity for 10-15 minutes. Younger kids should sit for a shorter period of time (5-10 minutes).
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