Why Can’t My Child Pay Attention When They’re Anxious?

Have you noticed that your child struggles to focus more when they’re feeling anxious or overwhelmed?

This is not a coincidence.

 

The Brain Under Stress

When a child feels anxious, their brain shifts into a protective state.

At these times:

  • focus becomes difficult
  • listening decreases
  • learning becomes difficult

 

Feeling Safe Comes First

Before a child can learn, they need to feel safe.

Many children struggle to learn in a traditional classroom. 

The volume of sights, sounds, and movement, as well as the need to focus and stay out of trouble, can feel overwhelming.

When the environment feels overwhelming, their system is focused on coping—not taking in new information.

 Read more here:  👉 Why Children Need to Feel Safe to Learn

 

A Gentle Next Step

If your child is struggling with both anxiety and attention, it can help to support their sense of safety first.

From there, learning becomes much more accessible.

Counselling and parent coaching is a good place to start if you are worried about your child’s anxiety and learning.

 

These May Help

👉Does My child have ADHD?

👉Understanding ADHD, Attention and Behaviour in Children

 👉Foundations for Learning: Vision, Balance and Listening

All articles are based on personal in-clinic experience, and are supported by current research into brain science. They have been written for general education purposes and do not constitute personal advice. If you are a parent, I encourage you to seek professional support.

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About Rosalind

Rosalind is a PACFA Registered Clinical Counsellor, with over 20 years experience in working with children with challenging behaviours and learning differences. She brings an holistic, or whole person approach to supporting parents, helping them raise children able to realise their potential. to live happy and successful lives. Appointments are available in person at Moruya on the NSW south coast and online Australia-wide.

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