by Nan Keltie

Created on: October 10, 2008   Last Updated: November 03, 2008

Concentrate!

Life is full of situations that demand our focused attention, and concentration is a skill that must be developed. By helping your children learn to "stay on task," you ensure their future success in school, at work and in the world beyond. The following article shows the importance of certain behaviors - and your example - in developing your child's ability to concentrate.

The Importance of Touch

Your touch is one of the first ways you communicate with your newborn. As you protect and cradle his head in your hands and look into his eyes, this loving connection becomes a familiar routine. Because your touch is gentle and your voice is kind, he feels completely at ease with you, and your time together is something he learns to anticipate. This face-to-face communication will serve as a valuable training tool in the days ahead.

The Importance of Tone

When your baby is fretful or squirming, turn him to face you and change your normal tone of voice to a whisper. This not only tweaks his interest, it puts his focus on you, which is what you want. Now, for the split second you have your son's full attention, brag, "Good boy! You're paying attention!" Then release him to be active again. Doing this is one way to reinforce the fact that when you are looking directly at your child and speaking in a calm voice, you are showering love and affirmation upon him.

The Importance of Focus

As babies mature, they are able to focus on objects for longer periods of time. Gently turn your child to face you and smile while holding up a book, rattle, stuffed bear or some other favorite toy. Say, "Look at what Mommy has for you!" Your daughter will sense that you are pleased with her attentive behavior. Quickly reward and reinforce her focused response by handing over the desired object.

The Importance of Curiosity

Since toddlers are often distracted and on the go, this stage is probably the most important of all in the training process. Your child's natural curiosity is a valuable tool, so use it. Toddlers love to play, and you can train them while doing something fun. Indoor activities like building blocks and art fun can become opportunities to focus. Let your child set a timer for 5 minutes, and during that time, encourage discovery and playful behavior. When the timer goes off, brag, "You were really concentrating while you built that block house (or drew that picture)."

The Importance of Imagination

Imagination comes into play during the preschool years, so take advantage

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