Attention Span

Attention span therapy is designed to help individuals develop the skills necessary to sustain attention and concentration, which are crucial for learning and performing daily activities. The therapy begins with an assessment by an occupational therapist (OT) to identify specific challenges related to attention and concentration.

Therapy sessions include a variety of activities and exercises aimed at gradually increasing the duration and quality of focus. Techniques may involve structured tasks that require sustained attention, such as puzzles, memory games, and sequencing activities. The OT might also use strategies like breaking tasks into smaller, manageable steps, using visual and auditory cues, and implementing timed activities to build endurance.

Additionally, the therapy often incorporates mindfulness and relaxation techniques to help individuals manage distractions and reduce anxiety, which can interfere with attention. Cognitive-behavioral strategies are also employed to help individuals recognize and modify thought patterns that affect their ability to concentrate.

The goal is to create a supportive environment where individuals can practice and enhance their attention skills, with regular feedback and positive reinforcement to motivate progress. The OT works closely with individuals to apply these strategies in real-life settings, such as school, work, and home environments, ensuring that they can transfer these skills effectively.