Science-Backed Tips

Boost Attention in Children with ADHD

Cognitive training improves focus by 1.3 standard deviations.


📊 Did you know?

Children with ADHD can improve their attention and daily performance by practicing cognitive training for at least 30 days, leading to a significant reduction in symptoms.
Benefits

💡 Why It Matters

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Improving attention in children with ADHD can enhance academic performance and social interactions.

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A reduction in ADHD symptoms can lead to better behavioral regulation, impacting overall quality of life.

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Cognitive training may reduce the need for medication in some children, offering a non-pharmacological intervention.

Give it a try

✅ Try These Micro-Tips

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Engage children in cognitive training exercises for at least 30 minutes, 5 times a week.

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Incorporate games that require focus and memory, such as puzzles or memory cards, for 20 minutes daily.

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Monitor progress weekly to adjust training intensity and ensure engagement.

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Encourage breaks during training sessions to maintain attention and prevent fatigue.

📚 The study

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) can significantly impact a child’s academic performance and social interactions.
A recent meta-analysis conducted by Zou et al. (2024) sheds light on the effectiveness of cognitive training in improving attention among children with ADHD.
The study assessed data from 10 randomized controlled trials involving 446 children, focusing particularly on a subgroup of those under 10 years old who underwent cognitive training for more than 30 days.
The results were striking: younger children exhibited a substantial improvement in attention, with a standardized mean difference (SMD) of –1.3.
This indicates a large enhancement in focus and executive function, which are crucial for behavioral regulation and learning.
Such improvements not only aid in academic settings but also foster better social interactions, ultimately enhancing the overall quality of life for these children.
Moreover, cognitive training presents a promising non-pharmacological intervention that may reduce the need for medication in some cases, offering a more holistic approach to managing ADHD symptoms.
This research underscores the importance of cognitive training as a viable strategy for parents and educators seeking to support children with ADHD in their developmental journey.

Source: Zou, X., Yu, F., Huang, Q., & Huang, Y. (2024). The effect of cognitive training on children with attention deficit and hyperactivity disorder: A meta-analysis. Applied Neuropsychology: Child. Study Link
Evidence-based

📚 Related Research

Hosseini, S. P., et al. (2018). The Efficacy of Attention and Concentration Training on Problem Solving Skills and Quiz Stress of Female Students.

Engage in a structured attention training program for 10 sessions to significantly reduce test anxiety.

Study Link

Jen, H.-J., et al. (2023). The effect of cognitive training on domains of attention in older adults with mild cognitive impairment and mild dementia. Journal of Global Health.

Engage in a 5-minute attention training exercise daily to enhance your focus and reduce distractions.

Study Link

Haukaas, R. B., et al. (2018). A Randomized Controlled Trial Comparing the Attention Training Technique and Mindful Self-Compassion. Frontiers in Psychology.

Engage in attention training exercises for 10 minutes daily to enhance your mental control and reduce ruminative thoughts.

Study Link

❓ Frequently Asked Questions ❓

Learn more

How does cognitive training help children with ADHD?

Cognitive training helps improve attention and executive function in children with ADHD. This can lead to better behavioral regulation and enhanced learning experiences.

What is the recommended duration for cognitive training in children with ADHD?

Children should engage in cognitive training for at least 30 minutes, five times a week. Consistency over at least 30 days is crucial for noticeable improvements.

What types of activities are effective for cognitive training?

Activities that require focus and memory, such as puzzles and memory cards, are effective for cognitive training. Incorporating these games into daily routines can enhance attention skills.

How much improvement can be expected from cognitive training?

Cognitive training can improve attention in children with ADHD by up to 1.3 standard deviations. This significant improvement can lead to reduced symptoms and better daily performance.

Can cognitive training reduce the need for medication in children with ADHD?

Yes, cognitive training may reduce the need for medication in some children, providing a non-pharmacological intervention. This offers an alternative approach to managing ADHD symptoms.

How does improved attention affect academic performance?

Improved attention in children with ADHD can enhance their academic performance significantly. Better focus allows for more effective learning and retention of information.

What is the importance of monitoring progress during cognitive training?

Monitoring progress weekly helps adjust training intensity and ensures that children remain engaged. This tailored approach can maximize the effectiveness of the cognitive training.

Why are breaks important during cognitive training sessions?

Breaks during training sessions are essential to maintain attention and prevent fatigue. They help children recharge and stay focused throughout the training.

What age group benefits most from cognitive training for ADHD?

Children under 10 years old tend to benefit significantly from cognitive training for ADHD. The study showed a notable improvement in attention for this age group after 30 days of training.

What is the standardized mean difference (SMD) in attention improvement?

The standardized mean difference (SMD) in attention improvement for younger children after cognitive training is –1.3. This indicates a large effect size, showcasing the effectiveness of the training.

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