Types of Attention

Explore different types of attention and how they develop in children

“Attention is no more than this — the power of giving your mind to what you are about.”

— Charlotte Mason

Five Types of Attention Development

Short, targeted attention on a single stimulus.

Example: Turning toward a sound • Birth–2 yrs

Maintaining focus on a task over time.

Example: Completing a puzzle • 2–3 yrs+

Focusing on relevant info while ignoring distractions.

Example: Listening to a teacher despite background noise • 3–4 yrs+

Switching focus between tasks smoothly.

Example: Moving between reading and writing • 4–5 yrs+

Attending to more than one task at the same time.

Example: Taking notes while listening • 5+ yrs

Approximate focused attention length by age. Use these as a guide — individual children vary.

2 years

4–6 min

3 years

6–8 min

4 years

8–12 min

5–6 yrs

12–18 min

Short, regular story sessions (day & before bed) help children practice sitting still and build focused attention.

Allow brief active breaks so children can release energy and return to tasks more focused.

Use numbered steps and visual cues so instructions are easy to follow and less overwhelming.

Create a calm workspace: limit toys, reduce noise, and keep visual clutter away during lessons.

Use realistic time limits—not too long or too short—to build motivation and steady focus.

Consistent daily routines help children know when to expect focused activities and when to relax.

“You learn something if you pay attention.”

— Ray Leblond