Stainforth Kirton Lane Primary School

Concentrate

At Kirton Lane our children need to be  able to concentrate and focus for sustained periods in order to make the most of their education.

Children spend much of their school day listening to their teacher or independently completing their classwork, so it is vital they are able to stay engaged and on task.

Here are some ways that parents can help their child concentrate at school ;

Sleep – Most children concentrate better after a good nine hours sleep, so ensuring they take the time for this can make a world of difference. Establish a designated bed time at an early age so they get into a regular routine, and try to stick to it. If bed time is a constant struggle, try explaining why sleep is so essential to them.

Diet – We all know a good diet is important, particularly amongst growing children, but diet also has a profound effect on energy levels and concentration skills as well as health and weight. Ensuring your child has a balanced diet, consisting of food from the four main food groups, will help aid brain function and help them concentrate for longer.

The golden rule to remember when it comes to their diet is to never skip breakfast.  Ensuring your child heads off to school having had a filling breakfast; containing foods that release energy slowly (cereals, bread, and wholegrains), will help them stay alert throughout the school day.

Exercise - There is a  link between physical activity and improved concentration levels. Exercise helps the brain stay oxygenated which in turn keeps the brain sharp.

Routine – Outlining a clear routine for your child will help them to realise what activity is coming up and what time to expect breaks. Knowing they have a deadline to complete a given task will drive their concentration and keep them focused. Using visual timetables with pictures of each activity in order may also prove helpful for younger children.

Encouragement and incentives – Praise, regular encouragement, and rewards will definitely help them to see a task through to the end more effectively.