Neuroscience supports the idea that children under 8 years of age should not be forced to focus intensely on structured studies, computer games, or learning apps.
Focus—or more precisely, the lack of it—is one of the most common complaints that come to the average graphotherapist. Parents often say, “My child doesn’t concentrate!” or “My child is unable to focus for a long time.”
When we hear such concerns, it becomes extremely important to ask a single, crucial question: “How old is your child?”
The answer to that question can flip the scenario from problematic to beneficial. To understand this better, let us explore the concept of focus from the perspective of child development.
In most urban settings, children are sent to preschools at 2 years or older. The necessity of this practice is a controversial topic on its own, which we won’t dive into today. Instead, let us focus on how a child’s brain functions during this period.
The Science Behind Focus in Early Childhood
The primary mode of learning for young children should not be focusing on specific tasks but rather fostering curiosity.
During early childhood (ages 2-7), a child’s brain operates predominantly in theta waves. These are brainwaves associated with the early stages of sleep, deep relaxation, and even hypnosis. Studies have shown that an abundance of theta waves in children is linked to enhanced imagination and the ability to engage in imaginative play.
Children with higher levels of theta waves often exhibit better cognitive abilities, including problem-solving, critical thinking, and creativity. So, how can we support the development of theta waves in children?
Supporting Healthy Theta Wave Development
Good quality sleep forms the foundation of mental health.
The first criterion is good quality sleep. Sound sleep forms the foundation of mental health. The second is outdoor physical activity and imaginative play. Neuroscience supports the idea that children under 8 years of age should not be forced to focus intensely on structured studies, computer games, or learning apps.
It’s worth noting that the Kolkata Institute of Graphology discourages graphotherapy for children below the age of 8. This is because, during the theta phase, children are primarily watching, absorbing, and reflecting. What they produce in this trance-like state often does not represent their original personality.
The Shift from Theta to Alpha and Beta Waves
As children grow older, their brains gradually shift from theta waves to faster brainwaves like alpha and beta. These waves support more intense cognitive activities such as focused studying and problem-solving. However, to ensure children can naturally achieve this hyper-focus, we must allow them a pleasant and peaceful childhood.
The primary mode of learning for young children should not be focusing on specific tasks but rather fostering curiosity—about plants, bugs, animals, the sky, and everything in between.
Emotional Development During the Theta Phase
The theta phase is also critical for emotional development. Trauma experienced during this phase can have lasting effects. In some cases, trauma may cause children to become overly focused on studies or screens, but at the expense of emotional growth.
As Dr. Gabor Maté, a renowned physician and trauma expert, explains, cognitive development is built on the foundation of emotional development. If we want children to flourish intellectually, we must first prioritize their emotional well-being.
Let us remember: a healthy childhood is the cornerstone of a child’s ability to focus and thrive as they grow older.
(The article first appeared in the annual journal of Kolkata Institute of Graphology.)
(The author is a senior graphologist, child psychologist and board member of Kolkata Institute of Graphology. She lives in Kolkata. She could be reached at [email protected])
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