Distractibility is the degree of concentration that your child possesses. You’re your infant turn at every noise, even when engaged in an activity like feeding or playing with a toy? When you toddler wants something that they can’t have is it easy to distract them with something else? Or does he insist on the object of his desire? When asked to do something does your child quickly accomplish the task or do they become easily sidetracked?
Easily Distracted
When a child is young this trait is a lifesaver. If your child gets into something you can easily distract them with something else. If another child takes their toy, you can show them a different toy and they will be happy.
As your child grows the trait is not so positive. For example you might tell your child to go put their shoes on so you can leave. Five minutes later you find them upstairs playing with a toy. They were easily distracted and forgot their assignment.
When your child starts school there are many distractions. You can speak to your child’s teacher and let them know that your child will need reminders to stay on task. It’s not that they are “bad” it’s just that they are easily distracted. Set aside a quiet non-trafficked area for your child to do her homework.
It is also important that you give your child specific instructions when asking them to do something. Don’t just assume they are getting ready for school, because they get ready everyday. You have to tell them.
Not Easily Distracted
Just as the child who is easily distracted when young is positive and then becomes more negative the opposite is true for the child who is not easily distracted. This child is the child who insists on getting what they want. If they want a certain toy they will not be happy until it is theirs. They are not distracted with treats or other toys.
As a toddler this is especially difficult to deal with. As a parent it is important that you set limits, but also be willing to compromise. Obviously you can’t let your child ride in the car without being buckled, but you can allow them to choose what they wear. If it is something you are not willing to give your child, be firm and consistent. Don’t give in just because they continue to ask for it. This will just reinforce their behavior and encourage them to try again next time. Try and remember that as your child grows you will be happy that they possess this trait.
As your child enters school this trait will help them focus on the task at hand, instead of everything else going on around them. They will also be better at following instructions and completing assigned tasks.
For more information about other personality traits read my blog “The 9 Temperamental Traits”.