I’m a mom of an 8-year-old boy, and I’ve been feeling very worried lately. Every time we try to sit down to study, my son can’t concentrate. He starts off well, but after a few minutes, he gets distracted by anything: a noise, a drawing on the paper, or he just starts playing with his pencil.
I see him frustrated, and it breaks my heart. I’ve talked to his teacher, and although she says he’s a smart kid, she’s also noticed that he’s having a hard time focusing in class. Sometimes I wonder if I’m doing something wrong or if maybe there could be a bigger problem, like a learning disability.
I know my son is capable, but it hurts to see him struggle so much with something that should be easier for his age. Should I seek professional help or is it just a phase? I’m confused and want the best for him
Oh gosh, I’ve been there! My 7yo daughter is the same way, and I totally get how frustrating and heartbreaking it is to watch them struggle. For us, it turned out to be sensory distractions, we ended up trying noise, canceling headphones for homework time, and it was a game, changer. You’re doing great by being so in tune with him. 
I’ve got two kids (now 12 and 10), and my youngest had very similar struggles at that age. We started by breaking study time into shorter chunks, like 10-15 minutes, with breaks in between to move around. It kept things from feeling overwhelming. Also, check out resources on executive function skills, sometimes kids just need help learning how to organize their thoughts. If you’re really worried, an evaluation can’t hurt; even if nothing’s wrong, it can give you peace of mind. Hang in there, you’re already doing so much just by noticing and caring!
It’s really tough to see your child frustrated, but honestly, you’re in a great place to help him! Kids grow and change so much at this age. My oldest had a hard time focusing, too, but by 9, things improved a lot with just some small changes to our routines. Sometimes it’s as simple as getting them to run around outside before homework. You’re doing awesome by being so proactive, things can and will get better!
I know exactly how you feel. My son’s the same age, and it feels like no matter what we do, something always gets in the way. It’s like, why does everything have to be so hard?! I don’t even have advice, I just want to say I get it, and you’re not alone in this.
My daughter struggled with this at 8, and one thing that helped was using a visual timer. It showed her how much study time was left, and we’d reward her with something small after. We also created a “distraction box”, she could write or draw anything that popped into her head while studying and save it for later. It helped her focus, knowing she wasn’t “losing” her ideas. Maybe worth a shot?
My daughter struggled with this at 8, and one thing that helped was using a visual timer. It showed her how much study time was left, and we’d reward her with something small after. We also created a “distraction box”, she could write or draw anything that popped into her head while studying and save it for later. It helped her focus, knowing she wasn’t “losing” her ideas. Maybe worth a shot?
Have you tried creating a dedicated study space? We set up a simple desk for my son, with no toys or extra stuff, and added a little fidget toy to keep his hands busy. We also started using apps like Focus Keeper to make study time more structured, it’s been amazing for him. Consistency is key, but don’t be afraid to seek help if you’re feeling stuck. Teachers and pediatricians are great resources!