Yr 3 DS not concentrating

[Cherys]

Hi

My Yr 3 DS has always been a dreamer but recently it's got worse.

He's been in trouble at school frequently this term for not listening, and for talking over the teachers. It's noticeable at home too and at beaver scouts where he's started getting into trouble. When I helped out last week I noticed he was off in his own world the whole time, unaware of the adults, only trying to chat to and impress some other boys. I'm wondering if it's linked to excessive use of computer and TV. (2hrs a day, a lot more at weekends unless I stand over him telling him how to spend every minute of his free time.)

I deal with this by just switching them off and keeping him busy as much as possible, but i want him to be able to amuse himself. He's bright, in top sets for English & maths but seems to have no pleasure in what this could mean for him, in terms of play and fun activities outside school. Some of his friends are passionate about making models or music or sport but he seems to just lack passion for anything other than computer games. He seems to lack any desire to put in effort. I really don't want him to end up being a difficult kid, unpopular with teachers, but I'm a bit stuck and would love some advice if any one is still reading. (Long post - sorry!)

[lydiane]

HI Cherys

I think this behaviour is bod standard year 3 boys!! My son sounds soooo similar to yours!

Firstly as he is in the top sets - do you think that maybe because he is bright that he finds school boring?

In my sons class a lot of children have trouble putting passion in their school work - including my ds! I think that this is the age where the pressure is starting academically and also they start to go off school a bit.
My ds has always loved school - but since being in the juniors he has really become less passionate! he is much more interested in other stuff now!

I dont think that playing computer games is all that bad. but to balance it out - have you tried to get his interest in other things?
For instance have you tried activities such as trampolining? learning a musically instrument? perhaps do some taster sessions in some stuff see what takes his fancy.

Also if he likes computers - but you feel like he is too excessive - perhaps teach him proper computer skills (I taught ds word and excel!! hehe)
Ds plays club penguin - this has loads of games on it and the kids can make friends with each other - if you think he would like this let me know and I will post the link.
Ds also plays education city on the pc - this is educational and fun too.

Hope this helps. He sounds normal to me xx

[ninah]

he sounds normal to me, too, more so perhaps than the airfix brigade

[mussyhillmum]

He sounds just like my DS and several other year 3 boys that I know! I don't think it is the computer - my DS is limited to 30 mins per day and plays violin, but he isn't exhibiting any signs of keen-eyed focus! Like your DS he is in top sets, but his teacher is tearing her hair out in frustration by his chat and dreaminess. She has even sent him to another classroom to help him focus. DS was amazed by how much he accomplished when he focused on his work, but still manages to be distracted by absolutely anything and everything!