My Child Doesn’t Sit or Listen in Class
A free Classroom Attention Checklist by Dr. Sumeet Dhawan
Got a complaint from your child’s teacher? Before you scold, go through this checklist. Tick each item that applies to your child.
Step 1: Ask the teacher (understand the pattern)
☐ When does it happen most? (morning / after lunch / end of day)
☐ During which activity? (writing / listening / circle time / group work)
☐ How long can my child sit before getting up?
☐ Does my child follow instructions given to the whole class, or only one-to-one?
☐ Does my child play or talk with classmates?
☐ Is there any situation where my child sits well?
Step 2: Understanding and communication
☐ My child often doesn’t follow 2–3 step instructions
☐ My child speaks less than other children the same age
☐ My child answers “what” but not “why” or “how” questions
☐ My child repeats words or lines instead of answering
Step 3: Vision and hearing
☐ Squints, sits very close to the TV or holds books close
☐ Doesn’t respond when called from another room
☐ Eyes or hearing not tested in the last 1 year
Step 4: Body and sensory needs
☐ Constantly moves, jumps, climbs or fidgets
☐ Gets upset by noise, crowds or certain clothes
☐ Seeks touch, spinning or chewing on things
☐ Sits better after running or active play
Step 5: Screen time, sleep and routine
☐ More than 1 hour of screen time per day
☐ Sleeps late or wakes up tired
☐ No fixed time for meals, play and sleep
Step 6: Learning level
☐ Struggles with work that classmates find easy
☐ Avoids writing, colouring or reading tasks
☐ Behaviour is worse during difficult subjects
What you can do at home this week
- Give instructions in short sentences, one step at a time, after getting eye contact.
- Use a visual timer and short 5–10 minute work blocks with movement breaks.
- Add 30–60 minutes of active play daily (running, jumping, cycling).
- Cut screen time, especially in the evening; keep a fixed bedtime.
- Praise every time your child sits and completes a small task.
- Ask the teacher for a seat near the front, away from doors and windows.
⚠️ See a doctor if:
- You ticked several items in Steps 2, 4 or 6
- The problem is seen both at home and at school
- It has continued for more than 6 months
- Your child is falling behind, getting hurt, or being left out by classmates
These can be early signs of ADHD, autism, speech-language delay, sensory processing difficulties or a learning difficulty. Early assessment helps your child get the right support sooner. 💙
Book a consultation: Dr. Sumeet Dhawan | Call / WhatsApp: +91 82085 37763
This checklist is for general awareness only and is not a diagnosis. Please consult a qualified doctor for an assessment of your child.