Attention
There are various types of attention that can contribute to challenges. Typically, children with attention difficulties are bright and creative, but may have difficulty executing tedious tasks (e.g. getting started, following through, completing quality work, or completing work in a timely manner). There are actually several symptoms that are evaluated through rating scales, as well as through test measures. Various aspects of attention are tested to assist with determining strategies for intervention:
Sustained Attention – ability to concentrate for extended periods of time
Selective Attention – ability to ignore extraneous input and focus on the designated relevant input
Divided Attention – ability to attend to two or more things at one time
Shifting Attention – ability to shift attention or mindset from one thing to another; this is usually linked with adaptability / stubbornness
Impulse Control – ability to inhibit a natural tendency in order to respond in a designated way
Working Memory or Planning – ability to mentally organize, re-arrange information, and / or plan ahead when problem-solving