Staying on Task – A Simple Technique Can Make a HUGE Difference

Is it a challenge for your capable child to stay on task to complete an assignment?  Does he spend 20 minutes doing a task that should take only 5 minutes? In response to this problem,teachers, tutors and parents often try strategies that range from gentle reminders and prompts to threats and punishment, only to find that some strategies work only some of the time.  Even after trying tons of techniques, the child is still not beginning the task and sticking with it until finished without a caring adult putting forth as much or more effort.

Simply recording the time a child begins and ends a task, in pencil, on a page of work is an effective strategy that can be accomplished with minimal talking.  I like this strategy because it helps students who easily lose track of time to become aware of the time spent on a task while helping me to monitor the progress he makes. I think that children respond well to this strategy because they can SEE their progress.

This technique is especially successful with children who usually do well on their work and want to complete the job, but they spend more time thinking than necessary. Children using this technique are pleased when they discover that they can spend less time thinking and still finish quality work in record time!

Once a child is aware of the time he spends on a task, he may want to try to complete his work in less time. Some children enjoy predicting how long it might take to do the same type of work the next time.

Finishing a task in less time while doing quality work should be a given expectation. Using this technique consistently for an extended period of time can result in multiple positive results including growing independence, a boost in self esteem, less time spent on homework and more time to play.

If your child is in need of a tutor, find the best solution for your family.