How to Slow Down a Child Who Rushes Through Everything

While most children occasionally rush through a task, some children seem incapable of slowing down and focusing adequately on their work. In some cases, this is due to developmental, attention or motor problems; in others, it̵7;s simply a bad habit. Whatever the cause of this behavior, addressing it requires scheduling regular work periods during which the child gradually learns to plan ahead, pace herself and develop self-control.

Instructions

    • 1

      Ask the child to think ahead of time about the steps a project or activity entails. Have him make a numbered list of these steps so he can cross each one off as he finishes it. Prompt the child to include steps for checking and revising work, if necessary.

    • 2

      Ask the child to read through the steps and confirm that she has the necessary skills to complete all of them. Sometimes, children rush through a task because certain steps require knowledge, skills or confidence they don̵7;t have yet. If the child needs to learn or practice skills to complete the project, create a list of steps for this process, as well.

    • 3

      Schedule a regular, ample block of time during which the child works on the steps without distraction. Explain that this time is not flexible; finishing early doesn̵7;t mean leaving early.

    • 4

      Introduce pauses or movement breaks between steps to help the child work at a more methodical pace. For example, if the child is working on a sheet of math problems, tell her to put her pencil down after each problem and to take two or three deep breaths before continuing to the next problem. It may also be helpful to cut a hole in a piece of thin cardboard and place it over the paper so she sees only one problem at a time.

    • 5

      Use music, clapping or metronome rhythms to help the child work at the correct pace. Alternatively, turn music on when you wish him to begin working, and turn it off when he should take a break.

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