Focus Exercises for Kids

Children sometimes have a difficult time focusing, especially if they are performing a task they don't enjoy, working on a school subject they have difficulty in or are suffering from a condition such as ADD or ADHD. Cognitive exercises may help children develop essential focus skills. By using these exercises, children may improve their ability to concentrate over time, resulting in positive behavioral changes as well.

Relaxation Techniques

When combining a relaxation technique such as deep breathing with a positive visual imagery, the brain may begin to function better, thus resulting in a marked improvement in focusing abilities. The brain records imagery trials, such as a runner imagining he is preparing for his track meet, the same as if the runner were physically preparing. Hence, if the child sits and and imagines himself concentrating on his math work and completing it successfully, this may actually occur over time.

Word Search

In every grocery or department store, there are word search and crossword books geared toward children. These are terrific ways to exercise the brain in using focusing and concentration skills required to complete the puzzles. While not every child is interested in these activities, those who are will have hours of enjoyment and improve their focusing skills simultaneously. You can also make it a family activity. Have one member read the clue out loud along with the number of letters required to achieve the answer and have the rest of the family put on their thinking caps to come up with the answer.

The Coin Game

Playing the coin game will not only improve the child's attention and focusing skills but also memory and sequencing skills. To play, you will need a pile of coins. Depending on how difficult you want to make the sequence, you can include a few of each coin. You will also need a piece of cardboard to cover the coins and a stopwatch or wristwatch with a second hand. Begin by choosing five coins of any combination. If you are just beginning this exercise, you may want to choose two pennies and three nickels. Arrange the coins in sequence and have the child look at it for a moment. Cover the sequence and tell the child to use the coins left in the pile to make the sequence she just saw. At this point, begin the stopwatch. When she is done, record how long it took her to do this exercise and if she was correct. If she didn't get the right answer, have her do it again until she gets it right. As time goes on, you can increase the difficulty of the game and see an improvement in her focusing skills. This game is popular with children because it is fast-paced and fun.

Supporting the Child

No matter what exercise you choose to use, remember that you are the child's coach and cheerleader. He needs you to make this fun for him, while you support him and have the patience to see him through. Although his problem with focusing may be difficult for you, it can cause him even greater frustration. The more supportive you are, the more successful he will be.