Attention and Focus Strategies

Your child can't concentrate, is constantly distracted, and flits between activities

Steps

Reduce distractions in the work environment: clear desk, face wall, headphones
Use movement breaks every 10-15 minutes (star jumps, stretching, walking)
Offer fidget tools: stress ball, tangle, fidget cube (these HELP focus, they don't hinder it)
Break tasks into 5-10 minute chunks with clear start and end points
Use background music or calming audio if it helps (experiment to find what works — note that white noise is still stimulation and doesn't work for everyone)

What you need

Fidget tools, timer, movement break ideas, minimal environment

Why it works

ADHD brains are not lacking attention — they're lacking the ability to direct attention to non-stimulating tasks. Fidget tools, movement breaks, and environmental modifications provide just enough stimulation to keep the brain engaged without overwhelming it.

Age guidance

Relevant from age 4 onwards. The specific strategies change with age, but the principle of environmental optimisation stays the same into adulthood.

Real-world example

A parent gave their child a stress ball to squeeze during homework and immediately saw focus improve. The teacher initially objected until the parent explained it was a regulation tool. Once the teacher tried it, she started offering fidget tools to other children too.

Troubleshooting

If fidgets become toys, swap for a subtler option (putty under the desk, elastic on chair legs)
Some children focus better lying on the floor or standing. Let them try
Medication may help if non-medical strategies aren't enough. Speak to your paediatrician