How to develop children's attention focus? Advice from Montessori practitioners

Negative impact of technology on child development

A systematic study conducted in 2023 showed that longer screen time is associated with negative indicators of children's health and well-being, such as obesity, sleep disorders, and behavioral problems. But how much time is too much? Harvard researchers seeking an answer concluded that it is not so much the duration of screen use that matters, but how we use them and the impact on our brains. In other words, it is most important to observe your child and the signals they send.

Recent studies show that the prevalence of attention disorders among children has been increasing in recent years. Scientists are certain this will remain a prevailing trend. In 2021 alone, a survey by Vilnius University researchers revealed that one in four (26%) children aged 7–14 in Lithuania is at risk of attention disorders.

In Germany, over the past few years, the number of children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) has increased more than threefold, while in the USA it is the most commonly diagnosed mental disorder among children.

How to use screens moderately?

Research data undoubtedly emphasize the need to develop focus, create a calmer environment where attention is not distracted by noisy toys or other stimuli, while raising the question: how then to use screens without harming children's development? How can screens serve as tools for interactive learning and even strengthen the bond between children and parents?

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that children aged 18–24 months should generally not use screens except for video calls, and children aged 2–5 years should spend no more than 1 hour per day in front of screens.

What we can do as parents:

• Parents as role models for children. Show healthy screen use habits: have dinner without phones, avoid browsing while children are nearby or when putting them to sleep;

• Encourage family activities without technology. Time together without screens can help strengthen family bonds and encourage children's creativity.

• Screen time together. Watch videos, play games together to not only build a closer connection but also teach how to safely use various technological advantages.

• Avoid screens right before bedtime. Good sleep is one of the essential factors for child development and brain growth, so establish sleep hygiene from early days.

Montessori educational principles for developing children's focus

Montessori education is based on the principle that children learn best when they have the opportunity to explore and engage in activities independently without constant external interruptions. For example, when a child builds a tower from wooden blocks or pours water from one container to another, they naturally develop their concentration, problem-solving skills, and patience. Also, if we spend time together, we can offer children activities not chaotically but sequentially: prepare the activity or game, engage in it, and then tidy up. These skills are important not only in childhood but also in adulthood.

Modern neurological research shows that the ability to focus attention can be trained like a muscle – the more often a child experiences deep engagement in an activity, the easier it will be for them to concentrate in the future.

"Therefore, it makes sense to limit sources of external stimuli and noise during the day. Do not keep the TV constantly on in the room where the child plays, and if you sit next to a playing toddler, avoid distracting their attention from the activity with a flashing phone screen," shares M. Rimeikė.

"And properly chosen, methodically correct tools and toys, a safe and inviting environment for exploration will help develop independence and self-confidence and create opportunities to immerse in activities with focus and without external distractions," says A. Stancikienė.

Modern Montessori principles to help children develop focus at home:

• Offer only one activity at a time – instead of giving the child too many choices, it is better to present one task or game to which they can devote their full attention.

• Remove distractions – when the child is playing or doing a creative task, it is worth turning off the TV, music, or other noise sources.

• Invite children to daily household activities together – invite the child to cook, clean, or water plants together.

• Do not rush the process – allow the child to immerse in the activity for as long as they need without interruption; remember that praise or prompting during the activity can also break the child's concentration.

Although trends in attention disorders and their links to screen exposure are concerning, we as parents can create an environment where children have more opportunities to discover and immerse themselves in activities that develop deep focus and thus train their attention muscle.