Parents and teachers: concentration is fundamental for children

 

The ability to concentrate plays a crucial role in child development, forming the foundation for effective learning and performing everyday tasks. In a world filled with distractions, especially with technology always within reach, cultivating the skill of focusing attention is a challenge for both parents and educators. Understanding and implementing strategies to develop concentration in children can transform not only their academic performance but also their self-esteem and overall well-being.

Recent neuroscience studies have shown that concentration is not an innate skill but something that can be improved with practice and proper stimuli. Children who learn to concentrate find it easier to organize their thoughts, solve problems, and manage emotions. A classic example is the practice of mindfulness, widely used in schools in the UK and the US. Research from Harvard University demonstrates that children who meditate daily show greater attention capacity and lower stress levels.

One of the simplest ways to begin fostering concentration is through playful and creative exercises. Painting mandalas, for instance, is highly effective. This relaxing activity not only calms the mind but also requires attention to detail and promotes prolonged focus. Imagine a child coloring a mandala, carefully choosing colors and filling each space with precision. Besides being a moment of tranquility, this exercise strengthens essential cognitive skills.

Another interesting method is the description of landscapes. Inviting a child to observe an image or look out the window and describe everything they see in detail is an exercise that trains the mind to focus on a single point. For example, when describing a beach scene, they can talk about the sound of the waves, the smell of salt in the air, or the colors of the sunset sky. This activity not only improves concentration but also stimulates creativity and vocabulary.

Diaphragmatic breathing is also a powerful tool for developing concentration. Guiding a child to focus on their breathing rhythm, feeling the air move in and out of their abdomen, helps calm the mind and reduce anxiety. This practice is particularly useful before challenging moments, such as school tests or presentations. Parents and teachers can incorporate this technique during transition moments, such as starting a class or before bedtime.

Games like Sudoku or puzzles are other powerful allies. They challenge the mind in a fun way, naturally promoting a state of focus. Additionally, these games teach logical problem-solving, an essential skill for cognitive development. In Finland, where the education system is considered one of the best in the world, using playful activities like these is encouraged early in schools.

For younger children, the candle exercise is a simple yet effective technique. Sitting in front of a lit candle and observing the flame's movement without looking away is a practice that teaches the mind to resist distractions. This exercise can also be done in classrooms as part of a collective pause and focus moment, promoting a calm and conducive learning environment.

The Pomodoro technique, widely used by adults, can also be adapted for children. Dividing time into short blocks of intense focus followed by small breaks is an excellent way to teach children to maintain attention for longer periods. For instance, a child might read attentively for 15 minutes and then take a five-minute play break. This alternation between effort and relaxation makes learning more efficient.

Parents and teachers can also encourage the daily practice of writing in a journal. Asking the child to record what happened during the day, their emotions, or even create stories helps organize thoughts and keep the mind focused. Additionally, handwriting stimulates brain connections that strengthen memory and attention capacity.

Finally, creating an environment conducive to concentration is fundamental. Eliminating distractions such as excessive noise and uncontrolled use of electronic devices makes a significant difference. An organized, well-lit, and comfortable space helps children enter "focus mode." Moreover, maintaining a balanced diet and encouraging regular physical activity are pillars that contribute to a healthy, attentive mind.

Parents and teachers play a crucial role in cultivating concentration in children—a skill that will allow them to explore their full potential. With dedication and practice, it is possible to transform simple daily moments into opportunities for deep learning, preparing children to face life’s challenges with greater confidence and ability. Why not start today?

Access the books by Antônio Carlos dos Santos on amazon.com or amazon.com.br

Click here.

https://www.amazon.com/author/antoniosantos