Is attention span something that can be trained?

Yes, attention span is not fixed, it is something that can be nurtured and strengthened over time. Much like a muscle, a child’s ability to focus improves through regular and appropriate practice. The key lies in gentle consistency and creating an environment that supports attention rather than overwhelms it. Children are naturally curious, but their focus may wander easily if they are tired, overstimulated, or unsure of what is expected. That is why attention-building is best done through calm, engaging routines that respect their developmental stage.

Begin with short, structured activities that match your child’s current capacity. This could be a five-minute puzzle, a brief storytelling session, or a drawing task. Offer specific, positive reinforcement when your child stays focused. Say things like, ‘I noticed how you kept looking at the pieces even when it got tricky. That was brilliant focus.’ This helps the child associate attention with pride and pleasure, rather than pressure.

Minimise distractions in the environment. Turn off unnecessary background noise, remove clutter from play areas, and make sure your child is well-rested. Use eye contact and gentle physical closeness to draw them into an activity. As their ability to sustain attention grows, gradually increase the length or complexity of tasks. Break larger activities into smaller steps, allowing for moments of movement or reset between sections. This keeps the brain engaged without feeling overwhelmed.

Children thrive when focus is framed as something they can enjoy and master, not as a demand placed on them. With time, patience, and trust, attention becomes a strength that supports every area of learning and emotional regulation.