Prepare a healthy breakfast for your child daily. When children skip breakfast, they are likely to have attention problems in the classroom. Skipping breakfast, the most important meal of the day, can result in a child's slower memory recall, and an increase in academic errors. Provide your little one with a healthy breakfast, as this will enhance your child’s mood as well as improve her academic success.
Schedule a conference with your child's teacher. Before trying to help your child solve the focusing issue, it may be helpful to understand the possible reason for your child’s lack of concentration. Consider your child’s teacher as your partner, and together determine possible concerns. Is your child sitting next to friends who are too distracting? Is your child having a difficult time understanding the academic content? Is your child bored? Discuss ways to modify things, such as moving his desk to a less distracting area, or getting your child a tutor if the material is challenging. After the conference, talk to your child about the reasons why he can't focus in class. Instead of lecturing him or getting angry, ask him for solutions to the problem, and understand that it may not be entirely his fault.
Don't allow your child to eat foods that disrupt her mental focus. Foods high in carbohydrates, or those that have refined sugar or corn syrup, can make your youngster have difficulty concentrating in class. Avoid purchasing junk food and processed foods, as these items have ingredients that aggravate mental focus. Instead, stock your kitchen with fresh fruits and vegetables and whole-grain foods. Keep these items handy for when she wants a snack, and send her to school with these items in her lunchbox.
Have your child tested for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. Although your child's teacher or counselor may think he has ADHD, a pediatrician, psychologist or other qualified mental health professional can make a diagnosis. ADHD is a common disorder among children nationwide, and medication is also prescribed to children with the disorder. Although it's easy and quick, medicating your child may not be in his best interest. Speak with your child's pediatrician to determine alternatives and options to help your child’s focusing issues.