Mistakes that make it harder to stay focused in high school

Key Takeaways

Audience Spotlight: Helping Struggling Learners Navigate Focus Challenges

If your teen is having trouble paying attention in class, at home, or while doing homework, you are not alone. Many parents of struggling learners notice that their children are easily distracted, forget assignments, or have a hard time getting started on tasks. These focus problems for high school students can feel overwhelming, but with the right support, your child can develop new habits and strategies to stay on track.

Definitions

Focus: The ability to concentrate on a task or activity without getting distracted.

Sustaining attention: Keeping attention on a task or subject for an extended period, even when it is challenging or not interesting.

Common Mistakes That Make It Harder to Stay Focused in High School

In the first weeks of high school, it is common for students to struggle with new demands on their attention. The transition from middle school brings more homework, complex schedules, and a variety of classroom environments. Many parents are surprised to learn that seemingly small habits can actually build up into bigger focus barriers. Experts in child development note that understanding the mistakes that make it harder to stay focused in high school is a key step to helping your child thrive.

Below, we explore the most common mistakes that make it harder to stay focused in high school, why they occur, and what you can do to help your teen build stronger attention skills.

Why Do Focus and Attention Problems Appear in High School?

High school is a time of rapid change—academically, socially, and emotionally. Many teachers and parents report that even students who seemed focused in middle school begin to face increased distractions. With new freedoms, digital devices, and packed schedules, it is easy to fall into patterns that make focusing more difficult. These patterns often include habits at home and school that are easy to overlook.

Top Mistakes that Make It Harder to Stay Focused in High School

• Multitasking During Study Time: Many teens try to do homework, text friends, and listen to music at the same time. Research shows that multitasking leads to more mistakes and less understanding, making school feel harder than it needs to be.
• Lack of Clear Routines: Without a regular time and place for homework, students often procrastinate or rush through assignments. The lack of structure can make it difficult to start or finish tasks.
• Poor Sleep Habits: Staying up late to finish homework or use devices can leave your child feeling tired and unfocused the next day. Teens need more sleep than most adults realize, and poor rest quickly adds up to focus problems in class.
• Skipping Breaks: Working for long stretches without a break can cause attention to dwindle. Short, planned breaks help the brain recharge so your child can return to work more focused.
• Cluttered Workspaces: A messy desk or backpack makes it easy to lose track of materials and assignments. Visual clutter can also distract from the task at hand.
• Underestimating Task Difficulty: Sometimes, students think a project will be easy and put it off, only to find it takes more focus and time than expected. This leads to last-minute stress and rushed work.
• Not Asking for Help: Many teens are reluctant to admit when they are struggling. Not reaching out for support (from teachers, parents, or tutors) can leave them stuck and frustrated.

How Can Parents Recognize Focus Problems for High School Students?

It is not always obvious when your child is facing attention barriers. Some signs to watch for include:

• Taking much longer than expected to complete homework
• Frequent complaints about being “bored” or “unable to concentrate”
• Missing assignments or forgetting deadlines
• Struggling to get started or switching between tasks without finishing
• Appearing frustrated, anxious, or withdrawn during study time

If you notice these patterns, remember that mistakes that make it harder to stay focused in high school are common and do not reflect a lack of ability or motivation. Many parents find that small changes in routine and environment make a big difference.

Parent Q&A: What Can I Do if My Teen Keeps Losing Focus?

Q: My high schooler says they cannot focus, no matter what. What should I do?

A: Start by talking openly with your child. Ask about what is distracting for them and when they feel most focused. Collaborate to create a study plan with regular, distraction-free time for homework. Encourage breaks and celebrate small victories. If challenges continue, consider reaching out to teachers or a tutor for added support.

Q: Should I take away my child’s phone during study sessions?

A: Many teens benefit from having their phone out of reach while working. Let your child know this is not a punishment but a strategy to help them succeed. Try using device-free blocks of time for important tasks, with short breaks to check messages in between.

Building Sustained Attention Skills in High School: A Parent’s Guide

Helping your teen develop the ability to sustain attention over time is a gradual process. Encourage your child to use a planner or calendar to break big assignments into smaller steps. Set up a consistent homework space that is free from clutter and distractions. Together, review their schedule and make sure they have enough time for sleep, physical activity, and relaxation.

• Model focused behavior by setting aside your own device-free time when your child studies.
• Use positive reinforcement. Praise your child when you notice them staying on task or using a new strategy.
• Help them reflect on what worked and what was challenging after each study session.
• Encourage participation in activities that require focus, like music, sports, or art.

If your child continues to struggle despite these changes, you may wish to explore additional resources on focus and attention or consult your school counselor for further support.

Focus and Attention: Mistakes Unique to High School Students

High schoolers face pressures that are different from those in younger grades. Balancing extracurricular activities, part-time jobs, and social events can make it difficult to prioritize academics. Some teens may also feel anxious about grades, college plans, or fitting in with peers. These pressures can increase the likelihood of making mistakes that make it harder to stay focused in high school, such as overcommitting, skipping sleep, or avoiding difficult assignments.

As a parent, it helps to check in regularly—ask about your child’s workload and stress levels. Encourage them to set realistic goals and to reach out for help before small problems become larger barriers.

How Do Emotions and Stress Affect Focus?

Emotional challenges, like anxiety or frustration, can make it more difficult for teens to concentrate. When students feel overwhelmed, their brains are less able to filter distractions. Building emotional resilience and coping strategies can help. Remind your child that it is normal to feel stressed sometimes and that taking breaks, talking to someone they trust, or practicing relaxation techniques can improve focus.

Executive Function and Organizational Skills: Why They Matter

Executive function is the set of skills that helps us plan, organize, and complete tasks. In high school, students are expected to manage their own assignments and schedules more independently. If your child struggles with these skills, they may find it even harder to stay focused. Visit our executive function resources for tools you can use at home.

Helping Your Child Overcome Mistakes That Make It Harder to Stay Focused in High School

Remember, the journey toward sustained attention is different for every student. Mistakes that make it harder to stay focused in high school are part of the learning process, not a sign of failure. By identifying unhelpful habits and making small, positive changes, your teen can build the confidence and skills needed for success. Your empathy, encouragement, and willingness to problem-solve together are some of the most powerful supports you can offer.

Tutoring Support

K12 Tutoring understands the unique challenges facing high school students who struggle with focus and attention. Our tutors work with families to identify individual barriers and build tailored strategies for sustained growth. Whether your child needs help with organization, study habits, or managing distractions, we are here to support your family every step of the way.

Related Resources

• How to Keep Students’ Attention in a Virtual Classroom
• Attention and Concentration – NHS Greater Glasgow & Clyde
• Understanding Your Child’s Temperament: Why It’s Important – healthychildren.org

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].