October 6, 2024
As a parent, you’ve probably noticed how your child’s ability to focus can vary from one moment to the next. Sometimes they’re completely absorbed in a task, while other times their attention seems to drift.
That’s completely normal—developing attention is a complex process.
As a paediatric occupational therapist in Newcastle, I often work with children to help them build these attention skills, which are key for learning, socialising, and even playtime.
Let’s break down the five types of attention, so you can better understand how they work and how to support your child’s growth.
Focused attention is when your child can concentrate on a single task, such as looking at a picture book or listening to their teacher. This is one of the first attention skills they develop and sets the stage for more complex forms of attention later on.
Try reading books together, focusing on the pictures or sounds. Keep distractions to a minimum so they can stay engaged with the task at hand.
Sustained attention is your child’s ability to focus on an activity for a longer stretch of time. You might notice this when they colour, build with blocks, or engage in a craft without losing interest.
Offer activities that naturally hold your child’s interest. For example, if they love puzzles or drawing, set aside time for them to do these things without interruption. Gradually, their attention span will grow.
Selective attention is your child’s ability to tune out distractions and focus on what’s important—like listening to you talk while there’s background noise. This skill becomes more essential as they start school and have to manage classroom settings.
Practise this skill by playing games that involve listening, like “Simon Says”, or by reading together in a slightly noisy environment, such as the family living room.
Shifting attention is when your child can move from one task to another smoothly. Think about how they switch from playing a game to answering a question you’ve asked. This skill helps with multitasking and adaptability.
Introduce simple activities that require your child to shift between tasks. For example, during playtime, you could ask them to switch from drawing to helping with a puzzle.
Divided attention is a more advanced skill. It’s the ability to do more than one thing at a time, like walking and talking or listening to music while tidying up toys. It helps children juggle multiple things in daily life.
Start with simple multitasking challenges, like asking your child to tidy up their toys while chatting with you. As they get older, activities like board games or sports will naturally help build this skill.
Each child develops attention skills at their own pace, and that’s okay!
Understanding the different types of attention can make a big difference in how you support your child. Whether they’re just starting to focus on their favourite toy or learning to manage school tasks, helping them build these skills is key for their overall development.
With a little guidance and some simple strategies, you can make a big impact on your child’s ability to stay focused and succeed.
If you’re concerned that your child is struggling with any of these types of attention, working with an OT can provide additional support.
POTS Newcastle's mobile service brings expert paediatric OT right to your doorstep. Our therapists use fun, engaging activities that not only build attention but also boost confidence in learning and social situations.
View post on Instagram | Our Services | Get In Touch