Improving Kids’ Concentration  In A Play Centre Setting Â
In general, it can be difficult to get young children to concentrate for any length of time. Put them in a setting such as a play centre and it can be even more difficult because they become over excited and overly stimulated as there is so much happening around them. Kylie-Jane Shannon, the owner of Jungle Kids Indoor Play Centre, gives some tips on how to improve children’s concentration in a play centre setting.
Some kids are just naturally excited, which is not a bad thing as it means they are curious, energetic and optimistic. Sometimes when kids are over excited they struggle to focus and concentrate. Play centres are often buzzing with excited and enthusiastic children running around and playing and many children can become over stimulated. “There are ways that parents can help to improve their children’s concentration in a play centre setting, and this involves picking up on certain behaviours as their children are playing,” says Kylie.
If the child is not concentrating or is over excited at the play centre, avoid reacting in a way that is going to escalate the situation. Always react calmly, and simply take the child aside and have a quiet conversation with them. Trying to shout over the top of children or yelling at them does not help.  If they are not listening or responding to instructions, attempt to do some breathing exercises with them. In a gentle voice, tell them to stop, take three deep breaths and then proceed calmly back to play.
“It could also be beneficial to discuss things with your child ahead of time about behaviour in a play centre or the steps to take to avoid getting over excited,” suggests Kylie. “This is particularly important for children who have been diagnosed with or suffer from ADHD,” adds Kylie. Tactics that can be used include, creating a fun song or rhyme that can be recited when its time to take a break or making eye contact with them to increase their focus, maintain concentration and listen to what is being said.
It’s important to pay attention to what steps help the child to calm down and make sure to exercise them when the time comes. Ensure that the child takes a break from play every now and then. This will prevent them from being overly stimulated and can help them to re-focus. If all else fails, it is perhaps time to leave the immediate environment. This will perhaps upset the child initially, but eventually they will calm down as often it is nearly impossible for them to take a breather amongst the ever present stimulation.
Play centres are great places for kids to exercise, develop their physical and mental strength, learn social and emotional skills and enjoy the company of other children. However, remember that every child is different and something that works for one child might not necessarily work for another child. Always keep this in mind, be patient and have fun!
Jungle Kids Indoor Play Centre continues to dedicate its expertise and delight to serving families within the town of Wallan, Victoria.
Check out their full range of services and current featured promotions at junglekids.com.au.Visit their Facebook page to view all their activities and special offerings. Jungle Kids Indoor Play Centre is open seven (7) days a week and is open until 5:00pm on weekdays during the school holidays.
As part of their Play-all-day Single Admission, adults and babies attend free of charge. 12 months to 3 years old attend at $8.50 and 4 years old to 12 years old attend at $10.00.
Written and syndicated by: YDMA News
