3 Strategies to Help Children Strengthen Focus and Concentration

Understanding the Challenge

Many children struggle with concentration, and that’s okay. Focus is not a fixed trait; it’s a developing skill that grows with support, structure, and emotional safety.

Children’s difficulty with attention can stem from many factors: developmental stages, environmental distractions, lack of interest, or underlying conditions like ADHD. Understanding the cause allows parents to respond with empathy rather than frustration.

Concentration isn’t about perfection, it’s about creating conditions where your child can do their best thinking.

Strategy #1: Empower

Create Routines

Consistency builds security. Establish a daily rhythm for meals, homework, playtime, and rest. Predictability helps children feel calm and capable.

Example:

A morning routine could be: wake up at 7:00 a.m., brush teeth, have breakfast, and start schoolwork by 8:00.

Build Sensory-Rich Environments

Different children focus in different sensory conditions. Offer tools like stress balls, fidget objects, or quiet background music.

Example:

If your child is tactile, holding a stress ball while reading can improve concentration.

Include Physical Breaks

Short, structured breaks reset the brain and prevent burnout.

Example:

After 30 minutes of studying, take a 5-minute walk or dance break.

Connect Through Relationship

Spend quality, distraction-free time together. Connection fuels motivation and trust.

Example:

Play a game or cook a favorite meal together for 30 minutes each evening.

Correct with Proactive Supports

Anticipate challenges and create conditions for success.

Example:

If homework is a daily struggle, set up a quiet, clutter-free workspace and break assignments into steps: read → outline → write.

Every child is unique; what empowers one may overwhelm another. Flexibility and patience are your best tools.

Strategy #2: Expectations, Reinforcement, and Consistency

Define “Paying Attention”

Children need a clear picture of what attention looks like. Use simple language and visuals.

Example:

“Paying attention means looking at the speaker, listening carefully, and thinking about what they’re saying.”

Create a chart with visuals:

• Eyes on the book

• Ears listening

• Brain thinking

Refer to it before tasks that require focus.

Reinforce Positive Focus

Catch children doing well and name what you notice.

“I love how focused you were during story time!”

Create a sticker or point chart: five stars for focused study might earn a small reward or special privilege.

Stay Consistent

Consistency teaches predictability.

• Keep expectations the same each day (“Homework before playtime”).

• Apply consequences calmly and consistently.

Example:

If homework isn’t done, playtime waits until it’s completed.

Consistency turns discipline into teaching.

Strategy #3: Empathy, Choice, and Consequences

Lead with Empathy

When a child struggles to focus, empathy lowers stress and opens the door to problem-solving.

“I see you’re having a hard time concentrating. That can be tough.”

Show understanding and support:

“Let’s take a short break and then try again together.”

Offer Choices Within Limits

Choice increases engagement and self-motivation.

“Would you like to start with math or reading?”

Once a choice is made, honor it; this builds responsibility and ownership.

Allow Natural Consequences

Real-life experiences teach best.

If your child doesn’t focus on homework, the next day’s lesson may be harder.

Help them reflect:

“Do you think focusing more yesterday would have made today’s work easier?”

Bonus Strategy: CDI and PDI for Focus

These two tools, drawn from Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT), can help deepen connection and strengthen attention.

Child-Directed Interaction (CDI)

Follow your child’s lead during play to build engagement and trust.

• Observe what interests them.

• Join their play by imitating and encouraging.

• Reinforce their actions: “I love how you stacked those blocks!”

Parent-Directed Interaction (PDI)

Use clear commands and consistent follow-through.

“Please clean your room now,” instead of “Can you clean your room sometime?”

Reward compliance with praise:

“You cleaned your room so quickly! Thank you.”

If directions aren’t followed, apply consistent consequences:

“Since you didn’t clean your room, there’s no screen time tonight.”

When used together, empathy (CDI) and structure (PDI) help children build focus and trust simultaneously.

Conclusion: Patience, Practice, and Progress

Improving concentration isn’t about perfection; it’s about progress. Every child develops attention at their own pace. By combining empathy, structure, and connection, parents can help children grow into focused, confident learners.

With patience and consistency, these strategies not only strengthen concentration but also build stronger relationships at home and school.

Written by Derek Setser, educator and founder of Turning Scholars Into Leaders. Explore related articles on Love and Logic Parenting and Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT).