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Show Teach kids to tune out noise Teacher to Parent U by Petty Condie As you read this article, you've probably "tuned out" many things going on around you. Most adults have learned to concentrate con-centrate on a specific task and to ignore ig-nore potential distractions. We can read, even though the TV is on, other voices can be heard or traffic noises pour through the open window. This may seem simple,, but paying attention is a skill that must be learned. Many students can't control their attention because they have never learned to focus their thoughts, energies and actions on the task at hand. Ordering a child to pay attention or threatening probably won't work. Instead, these methods may help your children improve their attention. 1. Use "self-talk" and images. Just as we use words to give directions direc-tions to others, we can use them to guide our own actions. Golfers often mutter to themselves, "Keep your eye on the ball. Don't look up." Runners Run-ners picture themselves crossing the finish line in first place. Dieters see themselves as slender. Students can silently tell themselves to stick to the studies and "see" themselves taking a "straight A" report card to Mom and Dad. 2. Ask questions. Asking themselves questions about lessons helps students bring their wandering attention back to the task. Some general questions your children might ask themselves as they read: " "Who did what and why? Is the argument weak or strong? What do I think about this information? 3. Set specific goalsExamples: Read Treasure Island by Nov. 1. Master multiplication through 12 times 12 by March 15. Write Aunt Darlene a letter by Thursday. Write the goals down. Look at the list with Mike or Janie. Remember, a series of small, "do-able" goals are more likely to be reached than an overwhelming over-whelming one. |