6 Tricks for Paying Attention

Winter 2021 • Tips From Us

Whether you’re a daydreamer, a fidgeter, or ADHD, here are some tips to help you stay alert and focused.

By KidsRead2Kids Team

Do you have trouble sitting still? Are you easily distracted? We know it’s hard to stay focused.

Take it from us—as a family with learning differences, we’ve all had our struggles. That’s why we’ve put together our favorite tips and tricks! With these in your toolbelt, you’re on your way to becoming a focused learner.

1. Exercise, exercise, exercise!

Did you know exercising improves focus? Moving your body motivates your brain and helps you think and learn better!

“I cannot think or focus without exercise,” Alana says. “In our family, we like to take walks almost every day. I couldn’t live without them!”

Many people don’t realize the benefits of simply walking. “Walking is a fantastic form of exercise,” our mom Carol explains. “It’s easy, requires no tools, and is a really great workout!”

Tip: Join a sports team, take a dance class, go on a walk, go bike riding… the possibilities are endless! Try something fun that gets your body moving!

2. Don’t be afraid to take breaks.

Your brain can get tired after working too long, so make sure to come up for air every once in a while!

Tip: Get up, move around, get a drink, and eat a snack if you need one! It’s hard to focus on an empty stomach.

Hint: Set a timer to schedule your work and break time!

3.  Turn off all electronics.

Unless they're needed for homework, turn off your screens. Trust us, it’s easy to get distracted when you have background noise. Keep your focus on your current assignment and do your best to cut out all other possible disruptions.

Tip: Stay away from anything that may tempt you to lose focus (computers, phones, televisions, etc.). If someone near you is making noise, try studying in another room.

4. Change your diet.

Just eating healthy can make a world of difference. Eating the right foods can boost your productivity and make it easier to stay focused. Stick to a balanced diet and stay away from junk food.

Hint: Check out our Living a Balanced Life blog for a daily checklist.

5. Get enough sleep.

Getting the right amount of sleep is key to being in focus. Remember: if you’re tired, your brain will be too. Give yourself the rest you need to maintain your energy.

Tip: Try your best to get 9-11 hours of sleep each night.

6. Drink lots of water!

Staying hydrated is another important part of maintaining your focus. When you’re dehydrated, you’re likely to get headaches, have poor concentration, and have trouble with your short-term memory.

Tip: Carry a water bottle with you at all times throughout the day. Drink even if you don’t feel thirsty. Trust us, you need it!

With time, these tips will help you become a more focused learner. Developing this skill will make a huge difference in your school day and life.

We would love to hear from you. Let us know how you focus best!

And, of course, always remember:

The Benefits of Listening to Stories...

    Allows me to practice paying attention, listening carefully, and remembering what was said

    Helps me focus on the sounds of the words read without interruption

    Provides me with a model for fluent reading

    Guides me in the learning of punctuation, enunciation, and emphasis (which all help me understand the meaning of a sentence!)

    Inspires my imagination as I bring the story to life in my mind

… Helps me become a Focused Learner