If you have been struggling with getting your child to stay focused on tasks in school or at home, you are not alone. Parents have been working overtime to figure out ways to get their child to focus better since online schooling took over. Teaching your kids how to focus is no easy task, but with some patience and these simple tips and tricks, you can have your child concentrating better in no time.

1. Take It One Step at a Time

Much of the struggle that kids have with focusing comes from them feeling overwhelmed. And when it comes to kids, feeling overwhelmed can quickly lead to frustration. Instead of presenting your kids with an overload of information, take tasks one step at a time. When giving instructions, don’t jump ahead more than two steps. Additionally, breaking tasks down into step-by-step processes helps kids to feel more accomplished as they move through each step.

2. Make a Goal List

When it comes to completing daily tasks, your child could benefit from a goal list. Write down each task that your child is to complete each day and figure out a reward system that works for you. You could have your child use stickers to indicate when tasks are completed. Then when they have completed all their tasks for the day you can reward them with something that is exciting to them.

3. Follow Their Lead

Don’t be afraid to follow your child’s lead when it comes to task completion. Be open-minded to what works for them and try to figure out ways that you can incorporate their preferences into your routine. For example, if your child is more productive in the evening hours, try to schedule difficult tasks at this time. Or if they like to listen to music while they study, don’t force them to work in silence. This way you are not fighting against your child’s natural impulses when getting them to focus on something important.

4. Redirect

Children are naturally inclined to give in to distractions. Even when using different techniques, kids can still have their focus pulled away from the task at hand. When you see this happen, try to gently redirect them back to what they were doing previously. It is important for you to have procedures in place that your child will recognize as redirection tactics. For example, you can come up with a specific phrase or you can tap their shoulder.

5. Create A Dedicated Workspace

Studying for a big test in a busy or loud environment can be a major source of distraction for children. Additionally, letting your children study in areas that are messy or cluttered can cause them to lose focus as well. This is why many families have found success by creating a workspace that is specifically for completing schoolwork. Choose a spot that is out of the way of normal household distractions. Keep the area clean and minimal. Only stock the area with items that you know your child needs to complete their schoolwork.

6. Take Planned Breaks

Sometimes kids start getting distracted when they feel burnt out. If your child suddenly becomes more distracted than they normally would, that may be a sign that it’s time for a break. You know your child best, so plan out study breaks just before your child would start to get restless. Take that time to let them play outside or have a snack. Then once they have had a moment to work off any extra energy, use your redirection tactics to help them resume their task.

7. Use Scent Therapy

If you recall your school teachers giving out peppermints right before a big test, then you have engaged in scent therapy. In fact, peppermint is one of the main scents known to aid in concentration. Some people will burn essential oils to use in scent therapy but giving your child peppermints to suck on during study time works just as well. Stock your child’s dedicated study area with peppermints so they can grab them as they please.

Finding Their Focus

The natural inclinations that our children have are oftentimes unavoidable. The best thing we can do as parents is give them the skills and tools to help keep them on track and focused on what’s in front of them. Taking time to help your child learn how to be mindful will not only help them focus better in their studies but also as they enter the workforce as they get older. Make sure you are trying out some of these tips and tricks with your child.