A child can stop an activity to listen to directions from an adult, but needs help to do this
(e.g. prompts to stop, listen and refocus)
Adults should check that they have the child’s attention before giving instructions.
Attention and Listening
Active listening skills are essential for any interaction. A child should be able to focus and remain focussed on the speaker despite other distractions.
Attention develops through recognised stages to a level where the child reaches an integrated level of attention i.e. s/he can remain focussed on one activity whilst also listening to other instructions
Attention develops through recognised stages to a level where the child reaches an integrated level of attention i.e. s/he can remain focussed on one activity whilst also listening to other instructions
By 3 Years
By 4 Years
A child can shift focus of attention without help, but still requires to stop activity before they can listen.
Background noise may be distracting.
Looking at the speaker is still important for processing complex instructions.
Background noise may be distracting.
Looking at the speaker is still important for processing complex instructions.
By 5 Years
A child can respond to questions and concentrate on an activity at the same time,
i.e. the child has developed two-channelled attention,
i.e. involving both listening and visual learning.
i.e. the child has developed two-channelled attention,
i.e. involving both listening and visual learning.
Compiled using information from I-CAN and Pre-school Language Scale-3(UK)
A classroom environment often demands this integrated level of attention so a child with poor attention skills is likely to struggle to focus properly in this setting.