Attention

Attention is how a young person focuses, switches between tasks and stays on track

Some young people may focus very deeply on things they enjoy. Others may find it hard to stay focused on tasks that feel less interesting.

Distraction is not about lack of effort. It is because the brain works differently

Attention means how well you can focus, change tasks and keep going.

For neurodivergent young people, this can feel hard. The brain may notice lots of things at once or find it hard to block out distractions.

This is not about being “bad at concentrating”. It is about thinking and learning in a different way.

How attention differences affect young people

Neurodivergent young people may find attention difficult because of differences in executive functioning.

Executive functioning means skills such as:

  • working memory (remembering information)

  • mental flexibility (switching between tasks)

  • self-control

Attention is also affected by:

  • sensory differences

  • the environment

  • how the brain processes information

These are not weaknesses. They are different ways of thinking and learning.

These differences can make it hard to:

  • stay focused

  • move from one task to another

  • ignore distractions

  • manage impulses and emotions

Strategies to Support Attention

  • Celebrating Strengths

    Many neurodivergent young people are:

    • creative

    • curious

    • strong problem-solvers

    Good support helps these strengths grow.

  • Structure and Predictability

    • use visual schedules

    • keep routines clear and simple

    • break tasks into small steps

    • give clear start and finish points

    You can also:

    • use planners, charts or apps

    • show what will happen next

  • Sensory-Friendly Environment

    • reduce noise and visual distractions

    • use tools such as fidget items or noise-cancelling headphones

    • include movement or “brain breaks”

    Movement ideas:

    • stretching

    • walking

    • dancing

  • Attention Techniques

    • use the Pomodoro method (25 minutes work, 5 minutes break)

    • use timers to show work time

    • sit away from distractions

    Young people can:

    • ask for help

    • ask for shorter instructions

    • choose what helps them focus (music or quiet)

  • Positive Reinforcement

    • praise effort, not just results

    • give choices to build confidence

    • celebrate small successes

    For example:

    • finishing a task

    • staying focused for a short time

What happens in School

Young people may:

  • find it hard to focus in lessons

  • struggle to complete work

  • find instructions difficult to follow

Lessons may feel:

  • too long

  • too fast

  • Being with other people

    Young people may:

    • interrupt without meaning to

    • lose focus in conversations

    • miss social cues (signals from others)

  • How it can affect your emotions

    Young people may:

    • feel frustrated when they cannot focus

    • worry they are “not good enough”

    • feel anxious when others do not understand

    Without support, young people may:

    • struggle more at school

    • feel excluded

    • experience mental health difficulties

  • What difference does the right Support make

    Improved Learning Outcomes

    With the right support, young people can:

    • focus better

    • engage more in lessons

    • feel less stressed about school

    Stronger Relationships

    When adults understand attention differences, young people feel:

    • supported

    • more confident

    Reduced Stress

    Supportive environments help reduce stress for:

    • young people

    • families

What’s On to support Attention

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Support in Wirral

  • My Happy Mind logo

    My Happy Mind

    My Happy Mind is a resource that can be used by schools in Wirral. There is support for parents and carers and children and young people. You can find more information on their website.

    The service in schools is free.

    Click Here

Resources and Helpful Information

Coventry Children’s Speech and Language Therapy helps children and young people develop speech, language, communication, attention, and listening skills. Its Attention and Listening page explains that paying attention and listening are important for learning, understanding language, following instructions, making friends, and communicating. The site provides practical activities, games, and handouts to help children improve their listening, concentration, play, and interaction skills. It also offers advice for parents and teachers, including strategies for preschool and school-age children. These resources help children build strong communication skills and take part more confidently at home, at school, and with others.

Words Matter is a charity that helps adults use positive, supportive language so children can grow, learn, and feel good about themselves. Its Talking to Neurodivergent Children and Young People guide gives practical tips for parents, carers, and teachers on communicating in ways that help neurodivergent children thrive. The guide explains that neurodivergent children may think, learn, and process information differently, so they can benefit from clear, patient, and encouraging communication. The website also offers free resources on topics such as talking with teenagers, supporting children through change, communication in school, and building children’s confidence. These resources help adults create positive relationships and support children’s wellbeing, self-esteem, and development

The Children’s Society is a charity that helps children and young people feel safe, happy, and supported. It works to help all young people, including neurodivergent children, be accepted and valued for who they are. Its neurodiversity resource explains that young people think, learn, and experience the world in different ways, and these differences should be celebrated. The page encourages schools and communities to create inclusive environments where everyone feels comfortable being themselves. The website also provides information, advice, and support on wellbeing, mental health, education, and helping young people thrive. These resources help adults understand neurodiversity and support young people to feel confident, included, and respected.

YoungMinds is a charity that helps children and young people with their mental health and emotional wellbeing. It provides trusted information, advice, and support so that no young person has to face mental health problems alone. The website has guides for young people, parents, and carers on topics such as anxiety, low mood, self-esteem, grief, bullying, and getting help. It also explains mental health services, including CAMHS, and helps families understand where to find support. Parents can use the free Parents Helpline and online resources for advice about their child’s wellbeing. These resources help young people and families understand mental health, build resilience, and get the support they need.