October Parenting Tip:
Improving your child’s ATTENTION
Many students struggle with maintaining their attention to a task within the home and/or school setting. Here are some helpful tips to consider:
For concerns with Hyperactivity provide external structure with the 2 P’S:
Physical controls such as: * Regular exercise
* Balanced diet
* Adequate sleep
* Limit screen time
Predictability such as: * Use consistent rules across time and place
* Prepare for changes to a new activity
* Practice simple daily routines
For concerns with Distractibility focus on:
Priorities such as: * Organize backpack and notebook
* Keep distracting items out of sight during homework or chore time
* Provide a regular homework time and clean area for doing homework
* Limit and balance extracurricular activities
Directions: * Use simple, positive directions (show child what to do instead of what not to do)
* Give visual cues
For concerns with Impulsivity: Build Self-Confidence through:
Social Skills: * Build on strengths
* Teach game-playing skills, taking turns and making choices
* Encourage non-competitive sports (karate, gymnastics, swimming)
* Teach friendship skills (make requests, giving compliments, less rough play)
Parenting Tools: * Model positive self-talk and goal-setting
* Reward frequently
