How to Improve the Attention Span of a Four-Year-Old

Four-year-old children are vivacious and eager to learn about the world around them. They're easily distracted and bore quickly, which are common causes of displaying short attention spans. If children have established routines, supervised play, fun activities, and are read to on a daily basis, then their attention span can increase.

Instructions

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      Develop a consistent routine. Most children thrive on a consistent routine schedule. It helps them know what to expect next, builds trust and reduce anxiety. Children who do not have a consistent routine may experience behavioral problems such as acting erratic or irritable. Therefore, getting them to pay attention or focus on something for a longer period of time will be more difficult.

    • 2

      Keep only a few toys out at a time. Allow your child to play with one or two toys at a time, and then when he or she is ready for something new, put those away and put out one or two more. This will give your child ample time to thoroughly enjoy a particular toy for a longer period of time. Giving children more toys than they are capable of playing with will only serve to shorten their attention span.

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      Engage in learning activities with children. Children who are left to their own devices will only get bored and restless over time and will want to do something different. However, if you engage in learning activities such as putting together a puzzle, playing a game, or making a craft, children will pay attention longer because they are having fun and feel like they are not alone.

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      Read to your child for 20 minutes a day. Reading stories to your four-year-old every day will not only teach her to sit still and pay attention, but you will inspire your child to learn to love reading books. Make sure there are no distractions, and your child will look forward to reading with you.

    • 5

      Reward your child for great discipline and hard work. Praise your children after they complete tasks that require a little more focus and attention such as coloring a page or completing a lesson. They will learn that they are rewarded for completing things and will be encouraged to do more. Give them reward stickers, certificates, or a special treat for their efforts.

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