While I agree with everything in this post, I think it's also important to point out that neurodifferences can cause differences in attention. Parents should understand that these tips won't "solve" a child's attentional challenges if the child truly has ADHD or other neurodivergence.
So true although I was coming here to say that I firmly believe so much of the inattention today is due to screens and that a good number of kids are being diagnosed with ADHD and given medication when if born in another era, they wouldn't have needed it. It's complicated!
I'm doing some research about children's focus as well to write in my daily parenting newsletter and I found 2 great papers about the topic:
• "Digital Screen Media and Cognitive Development".
In short, it says the role of focused attention in early childhood is crucial for cognitive development, including language, literacy, and social-emotional development. However, the excessive use of digital media has been shown to have a mixed impact on these developmental areas, necessitating a balance between screen time and other developmental activities
The other paper
• "A Review of Evidence on the Role of Digital Technology in Shaping Attention and Cognitive Control in Children"
The paper suggests that certain types of digital media, like video games, can enhance visual-spatial skills, problem-solving skills, and other cognitive functions, indicating that not all screen time is detrimental if focused and educational.
While I agree with everything in this post, I think it's also important to point out that neurodifferences can cause differences in attention. Parents should understand that these tips won't "solve" a child's attentional challenges if the child truly has ADHD or other neurodivergence.
So true although I was coming here to say that I firmly believe so much of the inattention today is due to screens and that a good number of kids are being diagnosed with ADHD and given medication when if born in another era, they wouldn't have needed it. It's complicated!
I loved this!
I'm doing some research about children's focus as well to write in my daily parenting newsletter and I found 2 great papers about the topic:
• "Digital Screen Media and Cognitive Development".
In short, it says the role of focused attention in early childhood is crucial for cognitive development, including language, literacy, and social-emotional development. However, the excessive use of digital media has been shown to have a mixed impact on these developmental areas, necessitating a balance between screen time and other developmental activities
The other paper
• "A Review of Evidence on the Role of Digital Technology in Shaping Attention and Cognitive Control in Children"
The paper suggests that certain types of digital media, like video games, can enhance visual-spatial skills, problem-solving skills, and other cognitive functions, indicating that not all screen time is detrimental if focused and educational.
Very good post.