Focus and attention

Mindfulness exercises and deep breathing are great for focus. They help people keep their thoughts from drifting — before or during a task.

Plan to take a break before frustration or lack of focus sets in. For grade-schoolers, that’s typically after 10 to 15 minutes of work. Older students can work for up to 20 to 30 minutes before a break. Set timers for when to start and end each break.

Sometimes kids need a fidget in order to stop fidgeting. Items like squeeze balls, Silly Putty, rubber bands, and even gum, are tools that can provide the movement and sensation kids need without bothering other people. 

Some kids may understand the directions but not remember them long enough to act. Record the verbal directions on a phone or tablet. Or make a simple video of the routine. This lets kids replay the information at any time.

Hold out one hand with your fingers spread wide, like a starfish. With the other hand, use your pointer finger to slowly trace up your thumb as you inhale. Exhale while tracing down toward the inside of the thumb. Keep breathing and tracing the whole starfish. 

Turn off the TV or go to a quiet area away from other people who are talking. Get rid of clutter in a work space. Or have kids sit away from the window when they work.