Teens’ attention span is frequently disrupted, with distractions like notifications diverting focus every 90 seconds. Regaining concentration after such interruptions takes about 23 minutes, making it challenging for students to stay on task during classes. School psychologist Rebecca Branstetter highlights the detrimental impact of multitasking and screens on cognitive efficiency, stressing the need for boundaries and guidance from parents and educators. She offers practical strategies to enhance teens’ executive function skills and manage screen time:
- View technology as a tool to address specific challenges.
- Guide teens through initiating tasks explicitly.
- Encourage mindful reflection on the feelings behind phone distractions.
- Utilise techniques like the scrunchie trick or aeroplane mode to minimise distractions.
- Explore AI tools like Goblin Tools for task management.
- Implement focus timers like the Pomodoro technique or the Forest app.
- Establish tech contracts to set expectations collaboratively.
- Maintain a technology diary to raise awareness of habits.
- Foster future thinking through visualising outcomes.
- Offer sincere praise and corrective feedback to reinforce positive behaviours.
