In the age of technology, is it still possible to build concentration in our children? The answer is YES! And if we can, why is it important? Concentration is the action or power of focusing one’s attention or mental effort. Just from that dictionary definition, we can see why the ability to focus is important in learning. The key words are action and power. This power can only be developed within. No number of rewards, punishments, or lectures can make children focus. What can we do to help children build it within?
According to estimates based on a recent UC Irvine study, refocusing your efforts after just one interruption can take up to 23 minutes. That same study found that the average worker switched tasks on average every three minutes. WOW!! We must be intentional with our children’s time. They only have ONE childhood, ONE moment of time to take care of their brains. Here is what we can do
1. Greatly reduce screen time. Read the Anxious Generation book. It will change your view of technology and our children. Until then, my personal recommendation is: Ages 0-3 – no screen time (TV, computer, phone, iPad). If your family lives far apart, the only exception is a video call to Mimi . Ages 3-6 – 30 minutes max per day, with you present the entire time. Ages 6-12 – 1 hour per day maximum, with extra earned time on the weekend. Stay present until you feel comfortable with the program. Anything new, be present. Ages 12-18 – 2 hours per day with flex time for homework. Still stay present with anything new. It is important to know what your child is watching.
2. Purchase toys that encourage imagination and creativity: LEGO, blocks, dolls (not the dream home), art supplies, etc. When a child can create and play out stories from their mind, concentration occurs. Start with 5 or 10 minutes, then build from there
3. Purchase toys that can be played with without you. We adults are a distraction. We interrupt thinking and concentration, and we don’t even know it. Once your child knows what to do, leave, watch from a distance.