Look Mumma, I Can Focus!
Hi Mumma, even though I’m always on the move, I do have an attention span—it’s just a bit short right now. At around two and a half years old, I can usually concentrate on something for about four minutes. By age five, this should extend to at least 15 minutes. Here’s how you can help me improve my focus:
The Evolving Nature of Focus
My attention shifts every day and sometimes even every second. You shouldn't always think of focusing as sitting still. No matter how quiet I am or how busy I am, I'm still learning.
Recognizing Different Forms of Focus
Active Engagement:
I'm learning and interacting with my surroundings even when I'm moving around or playing. Attention is this kind of thing.
Calm Concentration:
I might surprise you by paying close attention to a story or a puzzle sometimes. These times show that I can concentrate quietly.
Strategies to Foster Focus
Appropriate Challenge Levels:
Color Box: Improving pincer grasp and hand-eye coordination.
Pretend Sink with Water Play: This activity combines useful life skills with fun physical play, which interests me because it looks like something I would do in real life.
Focus Coaching:
Gentle Guidance: Let me try to figure things out on my own before you help. For instance, if I'm having trouble with a puzzle, don't solve it for me. Instead, give me ideas about where the pieces might go.
The Role of Environment:
Toy Rotation: Implementing a toy rotation system can reduce clutter and help me concentrate better on the toys that are available, thereby deepening my focus.
Signs of Overstimulation:
Restlessness or Frustration: These actions could mean that I'm not pushed enough or too stimulated.
Seeking Interaction: What might look like a lack of focus is sometimes just a need to connect with someone or do something different.
Consider a Minimalist Approach
Making my play area as simple as possible can help me concentrate. Having fewer toys around helps me play with each one more deeply during what Montessori experts call the "sensitive period for order." This helps me focus better and have more meaningful play.
Conclusion: Fostering Focus Through Understanding and Support
To improve my focus, I need to understand and meet the needs of my growth in the right way. You help me develop this important skill in a way that is both helpful and in line with my natural growth patterns by giving me the right tools and environment. Thanks, Momma, for showing me how to pay attention