Set realistic expectations for attention spans from "summary" of 10 Days to a Less Distracted Child by Jeffrey Bernstein
It's important to recognize that children have varying attention spans based on their age and individual characteristics. As parents, we often expect our children to focus for longer periods of time than they are developmentally capable of. This can lead to frustration and disappointment for both the child and the parent. It's crucial to set realistic expectations for attention spans and adjust our own behaviors accordingly. For younger children, such as toddlers and preschoolers, it's unrealistic to expect them to sit still and pay attention for extended periods. Their natural curiosity and energy levels make it difficult for them to focus for long periods of time. Instead of expecting them to sit quietly for long stretches, provide them with activities that engage their senses and allow for movement. This will help them stay focused and interested in what they are doing. As children get older, their attention spans naturally increase. However, it's still important to understand that children have different levels of focus and concentration. Some children may be able to focus intently on a task for a longer period, while others may need more frequent breaks and shorter periods of focus. By recognizing and accepting these differences, we can better support our children in developing their attention skills. Setting realistic expectations for attention spans also means being mindful of external factors that may impact a child's ability to focus. Factors such as fatigue, hunger, stress, and environment can all influence a child's attention span. By addressing these factors and creating a supportive environment for our children, we can help them improve their ability to stay focused and engaged in tasks.- Setting realistic expectations for attention spans is essential for supporting our children in developing their focus and concentration skills. By understanding and accepting the natural variations in attention spans, we can better meet our children where they are and help them thrive in their learning and development.
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