5 Strategies to Help Kids with ADHD Improve Focus
Does your child struggle to stay on task, frequently get distracted, or have difficulty following multi-step directions? Do they seem to bounce from one activity to the next without finishing what they start? These are common signs of inattention that can make schoolwork, homework, and daily routines frustrating for both kids and parents. The good news is that there are strategies that can help improve focus and set kids (and adults) up for success academically and personally.
Children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) often face unique challenges when it comes to maintaining focus, managing their impulses, and staying organized. If your child has trouble completing assignments, loses track of what they’re supposed to be doing, or struggles to sit still, you’re not alone.
Here are five effective ways to support kids with ADHD in developing better focus:
1. Establish a Predictable Routine
Kids with ADHD thrive in a structured environment where expectations are clear. Create a consistent daily schedule that includes set times for homework, meals, and recreational activities.
Using visual aids like calendars, charts, or checklists can reinforce expectations and help children understand their daily routine. When transitions between tasks are predictable, kids with ADHD are more likely to stay engaged and on track.
2. Break Tasks into Smaller Steps
Tackling large assignments or complex chores can be overwhelming for kids with ADHD, making it difficult for them to stay focused. Breaking tasks into smaller, more manageable steps can reduce frustration and create a sense of accomplishment.
Many parents don’t realize that weak working memory is often a major contributor to ADHD-related struggles. When a child has difficulty holding multiple steps in their mind, they can lose focus quickly—not because they aren’t paying attention, but because their brain is struggling to retain the necessary information. Understanding your child’s cognitive strengths and weaknesses can help identify areas that need development.
3. Incorporate Movement Breaks
Physical activity can significantly improve a child’s ability to concentrate. Encouraging short movement breaks—such as stretching, jumping jacks, or even a quick walk—can help release excess energy and enhance focus when returning to a task.
4. Use Visual Tools and Timers
Visual aids can make a big difference in helping kids with ADHD stay on track. Tools such as colorful charts, graphic organizers, and checklists reinforce instructions and clarify expectations.
Timers or alarms can also be helpful in managing time effectively, signaling when it’s time to focus and when to take a break. These tools serve as consistent reminders, helping kids stay engaged with their tasks.
5. Promote Healthy Habits for Better Focus
A child’s lifestyle choices can greatly impact their ability to concentrate. Ensuring they get enough sleep, eat a balanced diet rich in brain-boosting foods, and stay hydrated can all contribute to improved cognitive function. Regular physical activity also plays a crucial role in regulating energy levels and enhancing attention span.
Hacking the ADHD Brain: 5 Factors Influencing Your Child’s Behavior & Learning with Dr. Amy Moore
Building Stronger Cognitive Skills for Lasting Success
While it may seem like a lack of attention is the primary issue for kids with ADHD, underlying cognitive skill weaknesses—such as working memory, processing speed, and impulse control—often contribute to their struggles.
At LearningRx, we take a comprehensive approach to ADHD support by strengthening the core cognitive skills that impact focus and learning. Our one-on-one brain training programs are designed to help kids build the skills they need for lifelong success. While we don’t diagnose or treat ADHD, we do have a robust history of partnering with kids and adults to help them hone the skills they need in order to focus, read, and learn more easily and confidently!
