A Mindful Plan to Avoid Distractions

[news]

[news]

Distractions are apparently more than just a little nuisance. Pulling your attention away from one activity to something else can result in a plethora of problems. Forgetting where you were on a project, forgetting what changes were already made, or even forgetting to get back to the project altogether! These, and more, are all potential issues.

And what could serve as a distraction?

• Someone coming to say hi, asking a question, or looking for input on an issue
  
• A phone call, email, text, or other technology
  
• Trying to multi-task while completing work
  
• Unexpected loud noises or people passing by
  
• An overly-crowded schedule

With all the interruptions that take place in all of our lives,, it is obvious that we would all benefit from having a more structured work environment. The goal would be to have a system where everything needed to complete a task was within reach. That way, you'd never need to get up to look for needed materials, running the risk of being pulled off task.

This is no different for your children; they, too, should have a home study workplace with all possible materials they would need in order to complete homework, projects, or to study for tests. An area such as this might include:

• All possible writing materials: pens, pencils, markers, highlighters, colored pencils, crayons
  
• Any type of paper: writing paper, graph paper, drawing paper
  
• Math supplies: calculator, protractor, compass
  
• Study aids: index cards, graphic organizers
  
• Wall calendar to record long-term assignments or projects
  
• Filing box to save unit materials for semester exams
  
• Timer to keep track of study time vs breaks, or to practice for timed tests
  
• Dictionary and thesaurus
  
• Sign to post when working (i.e.: QUIET ZONE

Some students may use technology for their schoolwork. This can be a wonderful thing, but it is important to remember that just because you are using a computer does not mean that you should switch between social media, messaging, texting, or emailing with friends. Those types of communication should be saved for study breaks, or when homework and studying has been completed. That way one's attention won't be drawn away from the task at hand.

It has also been proven that insufficient amounts of sleep may result in a reduction of cognitive efficiency. The National Sleep Foundation recommends 9 - 11 hours for school age children, 8 - 10 hours for teens, and 7 - 9 hours for adults. Those lacking adequate numbers of sleep may find themselves experiencing decreased performance and alertness as well as memory and cognitive impairment; just more negative reactions to be added to those experiencing distractions.

Do yourself a favor as the school year begins; arrange your home with as much structure as possible, creating a home study area filled with the necessary supplies, and try your best to follow a consistent schedule that will result in necessary amounts of sleep for everyone in the family.

Good luck, and have a wonderful school year.

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