Short Attention Span: Prevention In Preschoolers
To succeed in kindergarten, children need a 15-minute attention span and the ability to control their impulses. If your child has a short attention span or tends to be hyperactive, don't wait for his teacher to fix him. Do something about it now. Here are some suggestions for getting your child ready for school entry:
- First: Encourage your child to play with one toy at a time.
- Second: Keep your home relatively quiet. This encourages thinking and listening. Avoid having a TV or radio on in the background.
- Third: Keep an organized home with regular wake-up times, mealtimes, chores, naps, and bedtimes. Predictable daily events help your child become more organized.
- Fourth: Maintain firm and consistent discipline in your home to help your youngster develop self-control over his impulses.
- Fifth: Stretch your child's attention span. This is the key to preparing your child for school. Each day, set aside time to teach your child listening skills through reading. Help your child's concentration by playing games of increasing difficulty, such as puzzles, dominos, and card games. Matching pictures is especially helpful for stretching the memory.
- Finally: While a short attention span is not caused by bad parenting, it can be improved by special parenting techniques.
If you have other questions about short attention span, consult your healthcare provider.
Disclaimer: This information is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice. It is provided for educational purposes only. You assume full responsibility for how you choose to use this information.
Author and Senior Reviewer: Barton D. Schmitt, M.D. FAAP
Last Review: 6/1/2008
Last Revised: 9/1/2004
Copyright 1994-2008 Barton Schmitt, M.D. Parent Advice Messages.
