Developing the Ability to Focus

Hello Preschool Families!

One of the main skills we practice in preschool is the ability to focus on a single task for an extended period of time. This is something we will be working on all year long! Some of you might be interested in ways you can help with this at home, too.

Here are a few ideas/tips:

• Limit screen time. Preschoolers should only get a maximum of ONE hour of screen time a day, preferably educational screen time. Screens actually make it harder for children to focus because of the over-stimulation in screens. Consider establishing set times for your child to use electronics for specific activities. Also consider limiting screen time at least an hour before bed time (more if your child struggles to fall asleep). 
• Consider buying or building a DIY light table. Light tables are an excellent way to help develop focus skills in young children because they are naturally drawn to the light and want to stay there longer. Light tables can also be a fun way to practice letters/numbers/shapes/Bible stories/etc. at home! I'll post another blog post in the upcoming weeks with some light table activity ideas that you can try.
• Set a timer for your child to focus on a specific task/activity. Start with a short length of time, based on your child current ability (this could be 3 to 5 minutes). Do this for an entire week. When your child is ready, add an additional minute the timer. Keep doing this, working on the goal for your child to be able to focus on a task for 15-20 minutes (or longer)!
• Puzzles. Puzzles are another great way to develop focus. Be sure to pick a puzzle that is at the appropriate level for your child. If it is too difficult, your child will lose interest before the puzzle is finished. However, if it is too easy, then your child will finish quickly and will not have a chance to strengthen her ability to focus and persist. 
• Board Games. Board Games require a lot of focus and attention. Children need to remember the rules of the game, whose turn it is, etc. Choose an age appropriate game that interests your child. This is also a great way to practice turn taking, following directions, and early math skills!
• Reading together. Reading with your child helps your child develop early literacy skills AND helps strengthen your child's ability to focus. Consider making reading together part of your daily routine.

I hope you find these suggestions helpful!

Blessings,
​Ms. Barker