lifestyle · SingTao

Four Key Areas to Boost Children's Concentration as School Resumes

SingTao · 1 SOURCESabout 3 hours ago2 MIN

Summary

With summer vacation nearing its end, children must readjust to early morning classes, often experiencing reduced concentration levels. Parents can support their children by addressing four key areas: diet, exercise, sleep, and engaging concentration games. A study by the Faculty of Education at the Chinese University of Hong Kong demonstrates that students who regularly eat breakfast achieve higher academic results .

Key Points

Breakfast plays a crucial role in learning performance; optimal choices include whole wheat bread, milk or soy milk, and plain cornflakes, all of which positively influence academic outcomes .
Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids—such as salmon, mackerel, tuna, and walnuts—along with natural antioxidants found in blueberries, strawberries, spinach, and oranges support brain development and concentration maintenance .
Aerobic exercises including running, swimming, hiking, and cycling enhance cardiovascular function, reduce anxiety and depression, and improve cognitive abilities .
Primary school students require 9-12 hours of sleep nightly, while secondary school students need 8-10 hours to ensure proper rest and recovery .
Parents should avoid relying on smartphones or tablets to keep children calm, as excessive screen time reduces physical activity, social interaction, and increases mental fatigue when returning to real-world tasks .

Why It Matters

For Hong Kong families, establishing these healthy habits before the new school year can significantly impact children's academic success and overall wellbeing. The transition from summer's relaxed schedule to the structured demands of school life represents a critical adjustment period where proper support can set the tone for the entire academic year .