Staying focused during longer tasks in high school

Key Takeaways

Audience Spotlight: Support for Neurodivergent High School Learners

For parents of neurodivergent high school students, concerns about staying focused during longer tasks in high school are common and completely understandable. Many teens with ADHD, autism, or related learning differences find it difficult to keep their attention on homework, projects, or tests that require sustained effort. These challenges are not a reflection of effort or intelligence—they reflect how your child’s brain processes information and responds to demands. By understanding your teen’s struggles and strengths, you can help them build habits that make long tasks feel more manageable and less overwhelming.

Definitions

Sustained attention is the ability to keep focus and effort on a task or activity for an extended period, even when distractions or fatigue set in. Neurodivergent refers to individuals whose brains work differently, such as those with ADHD or autism, and may need different strategies to succeed in school.

Why is staying focused during longer tasks in high school so challenging?

Many parents notice that their teens start strong but lose momentum midway through essays, science labs, or long reading assignments. Experts in child development note that sustained attention is a complex skill affected by fatigue, distractions, motivation, and the unique way each brain processes information. For neurodivergent learners, these factors can be amplified. Your child might feel restless, overwhelmed by the volume of work, or discouraged if they lose their place. Sometimes, even knowing a task will take an hour can cause stress and avoidance.

How parents can help: Building routines for focus and attention

Creating a supportive structure at home can make staying focused during longer tasks in high school much more attainable. Try these practical steps:

• Break tasks into chunks: Encourage your teen to divide big assignments into smaller, manageable parts. For example, if they have to read 30 pages, set a goal of five pages at a time, with short breaks in between.
• Set up a distraction-free zone: Find a quiet, comfortable workspace, away from phones and noisy siblings. Some students benefit from background music or white noise—experiment to find what works best.
• Use timers and visual schedules: Timers help make time feel more concrete. Consider the Pomodoro technique: 25 minutes of work, followed by a 5-minute break.
• Encourage movement breaks: Short, planned breaks for stretching, walking, or a snack can reset attention and energy.
• Celebrate progress: Offer positive feedback for effort and completion, not just for perfect results.

Many teachers and parents report that routines like these not only improve focus but also help teens develop a sense of control over their workload.

High School Focus and Attention: What Works for Neurodivergent Teens?

Every student’s brain is unique, and neurodivergent teens may need more individualized strategies for staying focused during longer tasks in high school. Here are some approaches that have helped other families:

• Flexible seating: Some teens focus better standing, sitting on a stability ball, or using a fidget tool.
• Task variety: Switching between different types of assignments (reading, then math, then a creative project) can refresh attention.
• Built-in accountability: Check in with your teen at set times. This could be a quick text or a face-to-face chat to ask how it is going.
• Visual reminders: Use sticky notes, checklists, or apps to keep track of what needs to be done.
• Personal rewards: Allow your teen to pick a small reward after completing a challenging task, such as extra screen time or a favorite snack.

If your child has an IEP or 504 Plan, work with the school to ensure accommodations are being used effectively for longer assignments. Do not hesitate to reach out to teachers for suggestions—they are often eager to collaborate.

Grade 9–12 Guide: Sustaining Attention Over Time

The high school years require students to manage more complex assignments and increased independence. Here is a grade-specific guide to help your teen sustain attention throughout long tasks:

• Ninth grade: Practice together by setting up a study schedule and modeling how to break down big projects. Encourage your child to ask for help early if they feel stuck.
• Tenth grade: Help your teen reflect on which strategies work best (for example, using a timer or changing study locations) and adjust as needed.
• Eleventh grade: Guide your child in planning for tests like the SAT or ACT, which require focus over several hours. Practice with sample sections and timed drills.
• Twelfth grade: Support your teen as they juggle complex projects, college applications, or internships. Encourage self-advocacy and check in about stress levels and workload.

Remember, growth in sustaining attention takes time. Each year offers new opportunities to practice and adjust strategies.

Parent Question: What if my teen gets frustrated or gives up?

It is normal for teens to feel discouraged if they struggle with staying focused during longer tasks in high school. Here is how you can help:

• Normalize the struggle: Remind your child that everyone loses focus sometimes, especially during difficult assignments.
• Problem-solve together: Ask what feels hardest about the task and brainstorm ways to make it easier. Sometimes, a quick change in approach can make a big difference.
• Model self-compassion: Share times when you found it hard to focus and what helped you. This shows your teen that setbacks are part of learning.
• Reframe “quitting” as a pause: If your child needs a break, encourage a walk or a snack, then return with a fresh perspective.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Expecting instant change: Building focus takes time, especially for neurodivergent learners. Celebrate small steps and progress.
• Overloading schedules: Too many activities can increase fatigue and distractibility. Help your teen prioritize and learn to say no.
• Ignoring warning signs: Watch for signs of burnout, such as irritability, headaches, or a drop in grades. Open conversations are key.
• Going it alone: Tap into school resources, teachers, and tutoring for extra support. You are not alone on this journey.

For more tips, visit our focus and attention resource page.

How to improve attention span for students: Tips for everyday life

If you are looking to improve attention span for students at home, try building in daily habits that support mental stamina. Encourage reading for pleasure, doing puzzles together, or playing games that require patience and strategy. Limit multitasking—encourage your child to do one thing at a time. Celebrate effort, and help your teen notice when their focus is strongest (for example, after breakfast or before dinner) and plan challenging work for those times.

Tutoring Support

K12 Tutoring understands that every learner is unique, and we are committed to helping families find real solutions for staying focused during longer tasks in high school. Our experienced tutors offer individualized strategies, patient encouragement, and expert insight so your teen can build confidence and independence. Whether your child needs help breaking down tasks, developing routines, or just a boost in motivation, we are here to partner with you every step of the way.

Related Resources

• Attention, Media Use, and Children – Children & Screens
• Teaching Children Mindfulness Can Help Regulate Emotions
• Trouble Paying Attention – Not All Attention Problems Are ADHD

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].