Focus
What does it mean to stay focused, and why is it important at school or home?
Staying focused means paying attention and not getting distracted. It’s important because it helps you finish your work, follow directions, and learn new things.
What are some ways you keep your desk or room neat and organized?
put books back on the shelf, throw away trash, and use bins for my toys and school supplies.
How do your feelings sometimes make it harder or easier to get things done?
When I feel sad or angry, it’s hard to focus. But when I’m happy or calm, I can work faster and do better.
What do you do when something doesn’t go as planned, like a canceled playdate?
Example: I try to think of something else fun to do, like playing a game at home or calling a friend.
What makes a big project or chore feel easier to start and finish?
Breaking it into small steps and taking breaks can help me finish without feeling too overwhelmed.
Can you think of a time you had a hard time finishing something? What did you do?
Example: One time I didn’t finish my math homework because I kept getting distracted. I decided to move to a quieter spot to finish it.
Why is it helpful to set goals, like finishing your homework or learning a new skill?
Goals help me know what I’m working toward. They make it easier to stay on track and feel proud when I finish.
How can taking deep breaths or counting to 10 help when you feel frustrated?
It helps me slow down and feel calmer so I don’t get too upset or make a mistake.
What does it mean to know your strengths and what you need help with?
It means I know what I’m good at, like drawing, and what’s harder for me, like math. Then I can ask for help when I need it.
What do you do to stay on track when you have lots of things to do?
I make a list and check off each thing when I finish it. I also start with the most important thing first.
What helps you remember what your teacher or a parent asks you to do?
Example: I write it down in my notebook or planner. Sometimes I also ask them to remind me again later.
Why is it easier to find things when they’re in the right spot?
Example: If everything has a place, like pencils in a pencil case, I don’t have to waste time looking for them.
Can you think of a time when you stayed calm, even when something went wrong?
Example: One time I spilled my drink at lunch. I wanted to cry, but I stayed calm, cleaned it up, and asked for help.
How does it help to listen to advice from a teacher or a friend?
Their advice can give me new ideas, help me fix a mistake, or teach me something I didn’t know.
What helps you keep doing something, like practicing a sport, even when it feels hard?
Example: I remind myself that practice helps me get better, and I might reward myself after I finish.
When you need to switch between activities, like recess to math, how do you stay focused?
Example: take a deep breath and remind myself that it’s time to start math now. I try to listen to the teacher right away.
Why do you think planning ahead, like packing for a trip, is a good idea?
Planning ahead makes sure I don’t forget anything and helps me feel ready. For example, I pack my toothbrush so I can brush my teeth on the trip.
What can you do to stay calm when you're feeling really upset or mad?
I can take a break, count to 10, or talk to someone I trust.
Can you share a time when something changed, like a new plan, and how you handled it?
One time, my soccer game got canceled. I was sad, but I decided to play soccer in the backyard with my brother instead.
What does it mean to put something off until later? How can you stop doing that?
It means waiting too long to do something, like my homework. I can stop by starting early and not playing games until I’m done.
What are some things that distract you when you're trying to pay attention? How can you stop them?
Example: My friends talking, my toys, or thinking about playing video games distracts me. I can stop them by sitting away from distractions and reminding myself to focus.
How do you decide what’s the most important thing to work on first?
I ask myself what is due soon or what my teacher or parents say I need to do right away.
How do you make sure you finish what you say you will do, like cleaning up or homework?
Example: I set a timer to stay on track and remind myself how good it will feel to finish.
What can you learn from a mistake, like forgetting your homework or losing something?
Example: I can learn to double-check my backpack or make a list so I don’t forget next time.
How do you make sure you finish what you say you will do, like cleaning up or homework?
I make a promise to myself, focus on one thing at a time, and ask for help if I need it.