Dr. Eirini Lordou Child-psychiatrist

No child is just lazy and such descriptions never help! There is always a reason for not being able to concentrate or not wanting or not being able to study!

It may be to blame:

THE INTELLIGENCE. Children with very high mental potential easily lose their interest in reading because they find it simple and without creativity.

LACK OF VITAMINES such as B complex, Omega 3, iron deficiency and vision and hearing impairments affect concentration and learning memory.

THE FEELINGS. Children who experience severe anxiety, depression, etc., which may be the result of school stress or family problems, easily lose interest in learning.

DIFFICULTY OF ORGANIZATION. In recent years most children seem to be experiencing major organizational difficulties which are related to difficulties in executive functions. We could informally say that this is also the “Syndrome of our children’s time.”

Practical Simple Tips For Parents:

ROUTINE. It is very important that there is a repetition in the child’s daily life, so that he knows exactly his schedule and expects it.

PLAY WITH TIME. Use stickers on the hands of the clock to let your child know exactly how long the reading and break will last (ex. every 20 minutes reading 2 minutes break).

ESTABLISHMENT OF FIXED LIMITS. Limit your child’s reading schedule and reward him or her when you follow or take away important privileges when not followed. Always with calm dialogue and explanation.

REALISTIC DAILY GOALS. This will help motivate the student to make further efforts. It is also important that the child initially focuses on lessons or activities where he is sure of success, so as to strengthen both his self-confidence and his motivation to try harder and slowly to set new goals.

FREQUENT REWARD. It is important for the child to be praised and rewarded both verbally and non-verbally (a gesture) at frequent intervals. This strengthens his self-esteem. Patience. Accept the time and the way you approach your child to learn something, without pushing it. Pressure often has the opposite effect. Praise every effort, even if it led to failure, so that you let it learn and grow on its own gradually. In this way you will increase the motivation of the child as if he is trying harder despite the difficulties that may arise.