After a long summer vacation, it is always a change of pace: new teacher, a different classroom, new classmates and … tests at the beginning of the school year. For many children this can be quite exciting. But what is often underestimated is that concentration in the classroom can be a huge challenge. Think noise, creaking chairs, sniveling classmates or the tapping of pencils: all small noises that when combined can be quite distracting. As a parent, you naturally want your child to feel comfortable at school and be able to focus on the lesson. But how do you help with that?
In this blog, we discuss why concentration is sometimes difficult, how to support your child and what aids – such as special ear muffs for children – can make a world of difference.
Why concentration in class is sometimes difficult
Concentrating in a class full of children is not always easy. Children already naturally have a shorter attention span than adults, and any distraction can be a trigger to dream away or wobble. Consider:
- Background noise, such as chairs moving or a busy hallway
- Classmates whispering
- Exciting tests causing extra stress
- Too much stimulation from posters, colors and movement in the classroom
Some children are extra sensitive to noise and stimuli. For them, the combination of school pressure and noise can cause fatigue or even frustration.
Tests at the beginning of the school year
More and more schools start the year with tests to gauge the level of the students. This makes sense in itself, because it allows the teacher to assess what a child can already do and where extra attention is needed. For children themselves, however, it often feels like a ‘real test’ that is immediately important. This can cause nerves and concentration problems.
What can you do as a parent?
- Talk about it at home: explain that the main purpose of such a test is to see where your child is, not to give a grade.
- Practice at rest: take a practice test together so that the tension comes off.
- Sleep and rhythm: a rested child can concentrate much better, especially for tests in the morning.
- Nutrition: a good breakfast with fiber and protein helps keep the brain sharp.
Ear muffs for children: less stimuli, more peace of mind
A practical tool that is becoming increasingly common is ear muffs for children. These are not hearing protectors that remove all sound, but special earmuffs that muffle sound so that the environment feels quieter.
Benefits of ear muffs in the classroom
- Less distraction from murmurs and background noise
- More focus during tests or reading moments
- Sense of security: children often experience carrying as a soothing “bubble
- Suitable for short periods: especially useful for concentration tasks
Earmuffs come in a variety of sizes and colors, designed specifically for children’s heads. For some children, this can make the difference between distracted looking around and concentrated work.
Other ways to help your child focus
In addition to ear muffs, there are many other ways to support your child in the classroom.
Home base in order
A good night’s sleep, healthy diet and adequate exercise are the basis for concentration. Regularity helps tremendously: set times for sleeping, eating and homework provide peace of mind.
Quiet place in the classroom
Some children function better when they sit at the front of the class, close to the teacher and with fewer distractions from classmates.
Short concentration blocks
Not every child can focus for an hour. It may help to work in short blocks with small breaks in between.
Relaxation exercises
Breathing exercises or short mindfulness moments are not just for adults. Children also benefit from techniques to release tension and clear their heads.
When additional support is needed
If you notice that your child has structural difficulty concentrating, even outside of class, there may be more to it. For example, it may have to do with AD(H)D, high sensitivity or other factors. In that case, it is good to discuss this with the teacher or internal supervisor. Sometimes a simple aid such as earplugs can be sufficient, sometimes more guidance is needed.
Working with the school
Most importantly, parents and school must work together. Teachers often have experience with different types of students and know what aids work in the classroom. As a parent, you can indicate that your child would benefit from fewer stimuli or assistive devices such as ear muffs.
A good tip: ask if your child can try out the ear muffs first during homework or reading at home. Then it won’t feel strange or uncomfortable in class anymore.
Summary
Concentration in class is not always obvious, especially in noisy environments or during exciting tests at the beginning of the school year. As a parent, you can help your child by providing rest and regularity, talking about tests, and using practical tools. Ear muffs for children are a great solution to reduce stimuli and increase focus.
With a combination of good preparation, smart tools and support from the school, every child can find his or her way to better concentration – and thus have more fun learning.
