If you have a daydreamer in your family, count yourself lucky! Daydreamers are able to tune out noise and hang in their own personal space for as long as they are allowed. This is a talent in today’s busy, media-centric world. However, in social situations such as school, where being actively involved is required, how can we keep daydreamers engaged in the task at hand?
While many dreamers are creative and bright children, it may be challenging for them to get work done during the school day, pay attention to the teacher and turn in homework.
Here are a few tips to re-engage the daydreamer.
Quiet Time
Consider if your child is getting enough time to play quietly on his own. With regular quiet time, daydreamers are more likely to exhibit time management and problem solving abilities. Quiet time also fosters creativity, self-confidence and independence. The opportunity to drive their own play without compromising for the benefit of a group, nurtures daydreamers on a deep level.
Get Active, Get Outdoors
Outside activities like swimming, art, theater or playing an instrument can help with concentration skills and provide avenues for self-expression. When dream mode time is satisfied, the classroom environment becomes easier.
Take Notes
Discuss note taking with your child’s teacher. Writing down basic words or pictures describing what the teacher says, can be helpful. That way your child may be lost, but can continue to focus on the teacher or task at hand.
Encourage
Seating your daydreamer child toward the front of the classroom or off to the side, may be helpful. By being in the middle of the action, his thoughts may be less likely to wander. Encourage your child to ask the teacher questions during instructional time.
Connect
Look for opportunities to connect with and listen to your child one-on-one, whether it’s while driving in the car or being engaged in a creative process like cooking or baking. Knowing that you are interested in her thoughts may help her feel less inclined to drift off.
Learn
Embracing your child’s nature and helping him create a positive learning environment can be a healing step in a possibly challenging situation. We are a world of diverse learners, and the key to success is exploring our options in the classroom and at home.
