Improve Your Child’s Attention With Gum & a Straw (Really!): Here's How! Parenting

Did you know that chewing gum could help your child focus? The act of chewing helps regulate the sensory system by placing proprioceptive input into the muscles of the jaw. This is calming and improves attention. Try having your child chew gum while doing homework to help with concentration. Other calming and organizing foods are:

• low-sugar fruit chews
• gummies
• bagels
• raisins or other dried fruits

Start the day with an organizing breakfast by having your kids suck thick smoothies, yogurt or applesauce through a straw. Resistive sucking also fosters the ability to focus and attend.