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Managing Focus and Attention in the Classroom

Staying focused can be a major challenge for students with ADHD, leading to missed information and incomplete assignments. This article dives into why maintaining attention is difficult and how to build better concentration skills.

Why Focus Is Hard to Maintain

Brain Wiring: ADHD affects dopamine regulation, which impacts attention.

External and Internal Distractions: Noises, conversations, or even internal thoughts can pull students away from the task at hand.

Boredom and Understimulation: Tasks that aren’t stimulating may lead to daydreaming or seeking other activities.

Strategies for Better Focus

1. Use Active Note-Taking Techniques:

◦ Engage with the material by underlining, annotating, or drawing mind maps.

◦ Ask questions or restate information in your own words.

2. Break Down Lectures:

◦ If possible, record lectures or use guided notes.

◦ Pause every 10–15 minutes to recap what you’ve learned.

3. Sit Strategically:

◦ Choose a seat closer to the front to minimize visual distractions.

◦ Sit away from chatty friends or other known distractions.

4. Practice Mindfulness and Movement:

◦ Take short, active breaks to move around when possible.

◦ Use breathing exercises or fidget tools (e.g., stress ball, fidget spinner) that help release restlessness without distracting others.

Conclusion

Improving focus in the classroom requires a combination of strategies that engage the mind and reduce distractions. By taking active notes, breaking down information, sitting in optimal spots, and incorporating brief movement, students with ADHD can make the most of class time.