5 top tips to help your little one focus

As parents, we have all experienced the frustration of trying to get our young children to sit still for any length of time. Whether it’s during mealtime, while doing homework, or even while watching TV, it can seem like an impossible task to keep them in one place. But why is it so difficult for young children to sit still? And what can we do to help them settle and focus?

In the early years, children are constantly exploring their environment and developing their physical skills. This includes their gross motor skills, which involve the large muscles of the body, as well as their fine motor skills, which involve the small muscles of the hands and fingers. Movement is essential for their physical development, and they need plenty of opportunities to fidget and move in order to build their strength and coordination.

By following their lead and interest, a child who chooses their own play will engage with it and concentrate for longer periods of time.

Here are 5 activities that can help your child settle and focus:

• Sensory play: Provide your child with different textures and materials to explore, such as play dough, sand, or water. This type of play engages their senses and helps them develop their spatial awareness, which is important for their physical and cognitive development.

• Exercise breaks: Encourage your child to take short exercise breaks throughout the day. This could include jumping jacks, running in place, or doing yoga poses. These activities help release energy and improve their attention and focus.

• Quiet time: Create a designated quiet space where your child can go to relax and calm down. This could be a cosy corner with soft blankets and pillows, or a special chair or bean bag. This type of space can help your child recharge and refocus.

• Fine motor activities: Engage your child in activities that require fine motor skills, such as colouring, cutting, or playing with small toys or puzzles. These activities help build hand-eye coordination and strengthen the muscles of the hands and fingers.

• Sleep and rest: Make sure your child is getting enough sleep and rest. Children who are over-tired are more likely to be fidgety and have difficulty focusing. Stick to a consistent bedtime routine and limit screen time before bed.

Child sleeping with Mother

Parenting a young child can be challenging, but understanding their need for movement and exploration can help us provide them with the support and tools they need to settle and focus.

By incorporating these activities into their daily routine, we can help our children develop their physical and cognitive skills while also promoting a sense of calm and focus.