MUSCAT: Decreased concentration in children has become increasingly noticeable recently, due to several reasons stemming from the fast-paced lifestyle they lead, according to Suad al Ghelani, a child and adolescent mental health specialist.
"Lack of physical activity, insufficient sleep, excessive screen time and heavy reliance on the rapid and continuous stimulation provided by devices play a role in decreased concentration in children. We must also consider the factors of nutrition and lack of physical activity, as the body and mind are closely linked," Suad said.“The reasons may also stem from psychological factors that the child may experience at school or at home, which can affect their ability to concentrate," she added.
Regarding how this phenomenon can be avoided and addressed with necessary steps, Suad said, “The first step is awareness. Parents should pay attention to signs of distraction in their child and not interpret them as bad behaviour or 'laziness', but rather as an indication of something that needs support. It is important to establish a daily routine: sufficient sleep, a balanced diet, a specific time for screens, and breaks between tasks,” she said.
“Also, the child's environment should be calm and organised, with space for movement, play, and even boredom. Most importantly: communicate with the child, listen to them, and try to understand what is occupying their mind or distracting them. Sometimes distraction is caused by anxiety or internal pressure," she added.
On when parents should be concerned and seek medical or psychological help, Suad said, “Help would be needed when distraction begins to affect the child's daily life, such as their academic performance, their ability to complete simple tasks, or when forgetfulness becomes so excessive that it directly hinders their daily functioning,” she said.
“Also, if they notice that the child is having difficulty concentrating, even on things they enjoy, or has started to withdraw, or shows signs of anxiety or hyperactivity, it's important to seek a professional psychological evaluation to understand the exact cause — whether it's related to attention, due to anxiety or other environmental factors,” she added.
As for effective ways to improve concentration in children, Suad said the most important method is balance: a balance between rest, play, learning, and sleep. Activities that develop attention, such as reading, building blocks, drawing, or games that involve planning and skill, all strengthen a child's concentration in an enjoyable way.
“Also, training a child to finish one task before starting another promotes self-regulation. And let's not forget positive encouragement instead of reprimand. When we encourage a child for their small attempts, we instil in them self-motivation, which in turn increases their ability to concentrate," Suad said.
On why some people do not pay attention to the aspect of caring for a child's concentration from birth, Suad said the early years of a child's life are a crucial period of brain development. "Every experience a child goes through leaves a lasting impact on their ability to pay attention and organise themselves later in life. Therefore, it is important to create a safe and enriching environment from the very beginning, one that includes interaction, play, and regular routines," she said.
“Focus doesn't suddenly begin at school; it gradually develops from simple moments of attention between the child and their surroundings — such as when they look at their mother, or react to their voice or toys. All these small details form the foundation for later attention skills. The earlier we start, the more we can support a child to become more balanced and attentive in the future," she added.
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