How can I improve my child's attention?

The first step is to consult a health professional. For general evaluation, see a pediatrician or family physician. For behavioural or developmental assessment, contact Child and Adolescent Mental Health services (or child psychiatry) or developmental pediatrics. If problems are mainly at school, collaborate with the school psychologist or guidance counselor.

• Pediatrics or Family Medicine: general assessment and referral
• Child and Adolescent Mental Health and Disorders: behavioural assessment and psychosocial support
• Developmental pediatrics or child psychology: learning and development evaluation
• School psychologist/guidance counselor: school-based support and adaptations

These professionals help identify causes and arrange appropriate assessments.

The approaches below are low-risk and can help daily functioning. They do not replace diagnosis or specialist treatment.

• Create routines: keep consistent times for morning, homework and sleep
• Use short tasks: split long tasks into 10–20 minute segments
• Reduce distractions: make the workspace simple and quiet
• Sleep and nutrition: prioritize regular sleep and balanced meals
• Physical activity: provide daily play and movement opportunities

These steps support everyday attention; consult a specialist for persistent or significant problems.

School is an important setting for attention. Regular communication with teachers, requesting classroom adjustments and school-based assessments can be helpful.

• Ask the teacher for observation reports (homework, class attention)
• Request school psychologist assessment and support if needed
• Discuss adjusting homework load, time limits or seating to suit your child

School support complements home strategies and helps protect learning progress.

Contact a professional promptly if you observe sudden and marked worsening in behaviour, thoughts of self-harm, severe loss of social or daily functioning, or abrupt changes in sleep or appetite.

• Thoughts of self-harm or suicide
• Sudden social withdrawal and major decline in school or daily functioning
• Severe somatic complaints with functional loss

These are warning signs requiring urgent assessment; contact appropriate health services.