My son, 7, is hiding claswork and not staying focused.

[skmmurphy]

My son, who is 7 in the second grade has not been getting his class work done. His teacher has told me that he will hide it in his desk hoping she won't notice he didn't get it done. It is also an act of god to get him to complete his homework. He just can't stay focused at all. I have worked out the problems at home by offering him a small amount of help only when he asks, but mostly by letting him go to the playroom with the other kids when he is done only if he gets it done in a timely manor. What can be done to help him in school with his classwork? What kinds of foods can help him focus better(non -peanut)?

[Kevin Kennedy, Ph.D.]

I neglested to answer your question about food. For the most part. diet does not have an enduring impact on focus or attention. Yes, it makes sense to avoid processed sugar in foods and foods that are high in fat content. And using Omega-3 Fatty Acid as a supplement (or in diet via servings of fish), along with foods that are rich in protein, is sensible. But overall, dietary adjustments will not be very useful as long as he is eating a healthy, balanced diet.

[Kevin Kennedy, Ph.D.]

Now that the teacher is aware of this, it is up to her to be on top of it and monitor him. Your 'work before play' plan is excellent - such a plan almost always helps. Perhaps the teacher will have to do a similar thing by holding recess over his head if he avoids his work.