Inclusive Education

Attentional Control and Learning

Have you ever walked into a room and then forgotten why you went in there? Or read a whole page of a book but can’t recall what it was about? Attentional control is our ability to keep our thoughts fixed on the task at hand while ignoring or suppressing distractions, or the urge to do something else. All of us, children, teens and adults alike rely on attentional control to learn new things; practice and consolidate recently acquired skills; and complete tasks. 

Everyone struggles with inattention and distractibility at different times. Particularly when other factors come into play such as hunger, tiredness, a lack of motivation or interest. However, some children experience more difficulty with attentional control than others and may be diagnosed with having a psychological disorder known as Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder or ADHD. 

Children with ADHD are energetic, creative, entertaining and curious. However, these strengths may manifest in ways that are misunderstood. Having a range of strategies in place can support children with ADHD to flourish in their environment. Some strategies include; having clear routines and firm limits on behaviour, taking regular breaks from tasks requiring high attentional control, being flexible while also consistent, breaking down tasks into smaller achievable chunks, making connections to real world situations or experiences, praising achievements no matter how big or small and providing personalised, positive-corrective feedback.

Attentional control may also be challenging for individuals with Autism and Anxiety Disorders but can also simply be a symptom of a modern fast-paced lifestyle. 

Having a growth mindset means that we believe all children can grow and develop their skills in attentional control. If you have any concerns about your child’s attentional control or you would like to know more about how you can support your child, please contact the Inclusive Education Team or your child’s Class Teacher. 

Yiota Chesterfield

Inclusive Education Coordinator