Set a routine. Children focus better when they have a routine. Give time limits for specific tasks. If you would like her to set the table, set a kitchen timer and inform her she has five minutes to set the table. If a child becomes aware of how much time matters by setting a timer and hearing it go off, she will become accustomed to time management.
Dedicate time to work with your child. If you are rushing around the house, your child will sense that and be antsy. If you dedicate a few minutes a day to sit and help him learn his letters and numbers, he will feel more settled and focused. Put restrictions on yourself such as not answering the phone or checking your email during this time.
Make the activities fun. A 4-year-old does not want to sit and read a book alone. Join her and include teddy bears or racecars with the story. She will focus on the story while acting it out with her toys.
Schedule a quiet time together at least once a day. Have your child lie down and listen while you read him a story. Have him close his eyes and listen. Ask him to describe what he sees when he closes his eyes during the story. Let him explain the details to you.
Reward him for good behavior. If you are trying to teach him something new, offer an incentive for him to pay attention and achieve the correct answer. Often children want to get through a task as soon as possible, but if your child knows he will be rewarded for reaching the goal, he will try harder.
Engage him in playtime. Every child needs to run around and burn energy. Throw a ball back and forth, play a game of kickball or take him to a playground. If your child has too much energy built up, he is less likely to focus and instead will spend his time running around and be easily distracted.