Managing focus and attention during class and homework

Key Takeaways

Audience Spotlight: Supporting Neurodivergent Learners in Middle School

Middle school is a time of increasing academic demands, more complex assignments, and shifting routines. For neurodivergent learners, especially those with ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, or sensory processing differences, managing focus and attention during class and homework can feel like a daily challenge. Many parents notice their child drifts off during lessons or gets stuck on a single homework problem for a long time. These experiences are common for neurodivergent students and do not mean your child lacks motivation or ability. With understanding and practical strategies, you can help your child build lasting focus skills and confidence at home and school.

Definitions

Focus is the ability to direct attention to a specific task or idea, while filtering out distractions. Sustaining attention over time means maintaining that focus for the duration of an activity, even when it becomes challenging or less interesting.

Why is Sustaining Attention Over Time So Difficult in Middle School?

As students move into middle school, they face longer class periods, more independent work, and increased expectations for time management. Many teachers and parents report that neurodivergent learners may seem restless, tune out instructions, or become overwhelmed by multi-step assignments. Experts in child development note that the brain’s executive function skills, which include focus, self-monitoring, and task switching, are still developing in the middle school years—especially for neurodivergent children.

Common challenges include:

• Difficulty filtering out background noise or distractions in class
• Fatigue or boredom during long lectures or repetitive homework
• Hyperfocus on a preferred activity, making transitions tough
• Forgetting assignment steps or losing track of time

It is important to remember: these struggles are not signs of laziness. They are part of your child’s unique learning profile, and they can be addressed with the right strategies for managing focus and attention during class and homework.

How Can Parents Help with Managing Focus and Attention During Class and Homework?

There are many ways you can support your middle schooler’s ability to stay engaged both at school and during homework time. Consider the following tips, which have helped many families improve middle school concentration and reduce stress at home.

1. Create a Consistent Homework Routine

Set up a dedicated homework space with minimal distractions. Keep supplies within reach and try to maintain a consistent start time each day. A visual schedule or checklist can help your child see what needs to be done and track progress. For example, after school, your child may need a snack and a short movement break before starting homework. Knowing what to expect reduces anxiety and helps with managing focus and attention during class and homework assignments.

2. Use Timers and Breaks

Neurodivergent learners often benefit from breaking tasks into smaller chunks. Use a timer (digital or visual) to set work periods of 10–20 minutes, followed by short breaks for stretching, movement, or sensory activities. This approach, sometimes called the “Pomodoro Technique,” can make longer assignments feel more manageable and supports sustaining attention over time. Encourage your child to move or change position during breaks to refresh their focus.

3. Build in Sensory Supports

Some children focus better with gentle background noise, fidget tools, or flexible seating (like a wobble cushion or standing desk). Experiment to see what helps your child tune in. Headphones with soft music or white noise can buffer classroom or household distractions. Always check with teachers about what is allowed in class, and advocate for reasonable accommodations if needed.

4. Encourage Active Note-Taking

Taking notes, drawing diagrams, or doodling relevant images can help your child process information and stay engaged during class. Some students benefit from color-coding or using graphic organizers. If handwriting is tough, digital note apps with speech-to-text features may help. Discuss options with teachers to find what works best for your child’s learning style.

5. Practice Self-Advocacy and Reflection

Help your child identify when their attention is drifting and what helps them refocus. Practice phrases like, “I need a quick break” or “Can you repeat that?” so your child feels empowered to speak up. Encourage reflection after homework: What helped you focus today? What was hard? Celebrate small wins to build confidence and motivation.

Middle School and Sustaining Attention Over Time: A Parent’s Guide

Managing focus and attention during class and homework requires patience and flexibility, especially for neurodivergent students. Here are some practical steps you can try at home and in partnership with your child’s teachers.

• Collaborate with teachers: Share what works at home and ask if similar supports can be used in the classroom. Many schools provide quiet workspaces, extra time, or alternative seating for students who need them.
• Monitor for overload: Watch for signs your child is overwhelmed, such as frustration, tears, or refusal to start work. When this happens, pause and offer reassurance. Sometimes a change of scenery or a short sensory activity can reset their attention.
• Promote independence gradually: As your child gains skills in managing focus and attention during class and homework, step back and let them try handling more on their own. Offer reminders and encouragement, but avoid hovering.
• Model healthy habits: Show your child how you handle distractions or take breaks when needed. Talk about your own focus strategies, like making a to-do list or turning off notifications.

If you need more support, many families find it helpful to connect with specialists, school counselors, or tutors who understand neurodivergent learning needs. Remember, improvement takes time and every small step counts.

What if My Child Still Struggles with Focus and Attention?

Even with routines and supports in place, some neurodivergent learners may need additional help. If your child’s focus challenges are significantly impacting learning or well-being, consider the following steps:

• Review accommodations: If your child has an IEP or 504 Plan, request a meeting to discuss attention-related supports. This may include more frequent breaks, alternative assignments, or assistive technology.
• Consider underlying factors: Sleep, nutrition, anxiety, and sensory overload can all affect attention. Check with your child’s healthcare provider if you notice changes in mood, sleep, or energy.
• Seek expert advice: Occupational therapists, counselors, or neuropsychologists can offer strategies tailored to your child’s strengths and needs.

Most importantly, reassure your child that struggling with managing focus and attention during class and homework is not a personal failing. Many successful adults learned to harness their unique brain wiring with the right tools and support.

For more ideas on focus and attention, visit our Focus and attention resources or explore related topics like Executive function and Organizational skills.

Tutoring Support

K12 Tutoring understands the challenges neurodivergent learners face with managing focus and attention during class and homework. Our tutors partner with families to personalize strategies that nurture self-confidence, independence, and academic growth. Whether your child needs homework routines, executive function coaching, or a patient listening ear, we are here to help your family thrive.

Related Resources

• Teaching Children Mindfulness Can Help Regulate Emotions
• Trouble Paying Attention – Not All Attention Problems Are ADHD
• Impact of Coordinated-Bilateral Physical Activities on Attention

Trust & Transparency Statement

Last reviewed: October 2025
This article was prepared by the K12 Tutoring education team, dedicated to helping students succeed with personalized learning support and expert guidance. K12 Tutoring content is reviewed periodically by education specialists to reflect current best practices and family feedback. Have ideas or success stories to share? Email us at [email protected].