How Can I Help My Child Focus in School?

Here is a teacher’s practical guide for parents

If you’ve ever heard your child’s teacher, say,

“She’s bright, but she gets distracted,” or “He struggles to stay on task,” just know this: you are not alone.

As a primary school teacher with over 20 years in the classroom, I can confidently say that focus is a skill, that like reading or writing, it can be taught, supported, and strengthened.

Let’s talk about how you can help your child focus better in school, starting at home.

1. Understand that focus looks different for every child; some children can sit quietly but their minds wander; some need movement to concentrate while others focus well on things they enjoy, but not on schoolwork. This does not mean your child is lazy or “hard-headed.”

What it does mean is that your child brain processes information differently.

👉 Focus is not only about engagement.

2. Create simple routines (children thrive on predictability). Children feel safer and more settled when they know what to expect. At home, try to:

• Set a regular homework time

• Keep bedtime consistent (yes, sleep matters!)

• Have a simple after-school routine: snack → rest → homework

When routines are predictable, the brain spends less energy adjusting and more energy focusing.

3. Reduce distractions, especially during homework time. Remember that many children are already overstimulated by the time they reach home.

During homework:

• Turn off the TV

• Put phones and tablets away

• Use a quiet, clutter-free space

💡 Tip from the classroom:

Background noise can make it hard for children to process instructions.

4. Break work into small, manageable chunks since long tasks overwhelm children.

Instead of:

“Finish all your homework.”

Try:

“Do these 5 sums, then we’ll take a short break.”

Use a timer (10–15 minutes works well for younger children)

✔ Small wins build confidence

✔ Confidence improves focus

5. Allow movement (especially for active children)

Some children need to move to think.

You can:

Let them stand while working

Use short movement breaks

Allow squeezing a stress ball or fidget

Movement helps regulate the brain, so it is not “misbehaviour.”

6. Encourage listening skills, not just quietness

Many children hear instructions but don’t truly listen. Practise at home by:

• Asking your child to repeat instructions in their own words

• Giving one instruction at a time

• Making eye contact before speaking

This mirrors what we try to reinforce in the classroom.

7. Praise effort, not just results as children who struggle to focus often hear a lot of:

• “Pay attention!”

• “Try harder!”

Instead, try:

• “I like how you stayed with that task.”

• “You didn’t give up, so well done.”

Positive reinforcement trains the brain to want to focus again.

8. Work with the teacher, not against the system

If focus is a consistent issue:

• Speak to your child’s teacher early

• Ask what strategies work in class

• Share what works at home

Remember: teachers and parents are on the same team.

A gentle reminder from a teacher ❤

Focus is not built overnight; some children need time, patience, and the right support.

Your role is not to pressure but to guide, encourage, and advocate.

With consistency and understanding, your child can improve their focus and confidence in school.