When focus isn’t landing, it’s not always about attention — it’s often about regulation.
In clinic, we look at what may be driving the behaviour, not just the label.
Here are some simple, effective areas to start with:
🧠 1. Regulate the nervous system first
A child who is restless, fidgety or “checked out” is often overstimulated or dysregulated.
→ Build in short reset moments → Time outdoors, sunlight, movement → Breathing, quiet time, or short breaks between tasks
Focus improves when the nervous system feels safe and settled.
🥗 2. Support with diet (this is huge)
Blood sugar swings = attention swings.
Start with: → Protein at breakfast (eggs, yoghurt, nuts, tofu) → Reduce highly processed sugars and additives → Add omega-3 rich foods (salmon, sardines, walnuts) → Ensure regular meals — don’t skip
What goes in directly affects how the brain performs.
😴 3. Protect sleep quality
Even mild sleep disruption impacts: → Attention → Memory → Emotional regulation
→ Consistent bedtime → Reduce screens 1 hour before sleep → Calm wind-down routine
🏃♂️ 4. Use movement strategically
These kids don’t need less movement — they need the right kind.
→ Short bursts of physical activity → Heavy work (climbing, pushing, carrying) → Movement before learning tasks
Movement helps organise the brain for focus.
👂 5. Consider nervous system support
Modalities like acupuncture or auriculotherapy may assist in supporting: → Regulation → Calmness → Attention
Every child is different, but supporting the nervous system can be a valuable part of a broader approach.
🌿 6. Consider targeted nutritional support
When focus is inconsistent, it’s often linked to how the brain is being nourished and regulated. There is a growing body of clinical research examining specific nutrients in the context of attention and behaviour.
→ Omega-3 fatty acids (EPA/DHA) Support brain function, attention, and nervous system regulation. Some clinical trials and meta-analyses have found small but significant improvements in ADHD symptoms — particularly inattention — in children taking fish oil, with higher EPA doses appearing linked to better outcomes. Inadequate dietary intake of EPA and DHA has been linked to a wide range of neurodevelopmental outcomes, and lower omega-3 levels have been associated with greater ADHD symptom severity. Delta PsychologyPubMed Central
→ Magnesium Often used to support relaxation, reduce restlessness, and assist sleep quality. A 2016 study found that 72% of children with ADHD had magnesium deficiencies, and supplementation over 8 weeks improved cognitive function in this group. A 2020 study also found that combined vitamin D and magnesium supplementation was associated with improvements in several ADHD symptoms in children, including conduct problems and anxiety. ADDitudeMedical News Today
→ Zinc Plays a role in neurotransmitter function and cognitive development. Zinc supplementation has been independently examined in clinical trials and shown to support ADHD-related symptoms. Research suggests it may be particularly relevant where zinc status is low. PubMed Central
→ Iron (when indicated) Low iron can impact attention, energy, and learning capacity. An RCT found that oral iron supplementation in non-anaemic children with ADHD and low ferritin levels improved ADHD symptoms over placebo. Testing before supplementing is essential — iron supplementation when levels are already normal is unlikely to support attention and may cause side effects. PubMed CentralSuperpower
→ B vitamins Support energy production, brain function, and stress response. Research has found that in children who were magnesium-deficient, combining magnesium with B6 improved behaviour — suggesting synergistic effects between key nutrients. Delta Psychology
→ Probiotics / gut support The gut–brain connection is significant — supporting digestion may assist mood and behaviour regulation. Clinical research has increasingly highlighted the role of nutritional status across multiple systems in supporting neurodevelopmental outcomes. PubMed Central
⚠️ Important: Supplement needs are highly individual — what works for one child may not be appropriate for another. Dosage, form, timing, and whether deficiency is actually present all matter. All prescriptions are to be based on blood test results. Always work with a qualified practitioner before starting supplementation.
👩⚕️ How we can support
Our naturopath Anastasia works with children presenting with focus, attention and regulation challenges.
We take a personalised approach, which may include: → Nutritional assessment and functional testing → Dietary guidance → Targeted supplementation (where appropriate and indicated) → Auriculotherapy as part of a holistic plan → Collaboration with your existing healthcare providers
The key shift: Focus is not just a behaviour — it’s a reflection of what’s happening in the body.
When you support the system, the focus often follows.
✨ Try our auriculotherapy protocol for ADHD Using low-level laser, our auriculotherapy sessions are gentle and comfortable — making them a great option for children. We also work with adults navigating ADHD, where this approach can support regulation, calmness and focus as part of a broader care plan.
What does the research say? A 2024 randomised clinical trial published in Medical Acupuncture found that ear acupressure significantly reduced behavioural problems in children with ADHD compared to a control group, with a large effect size for reduction in attention problems at both 4 and 8 weeks. A systematic review and meta-analysis drawing on nine databases also examined RCT evidence for acupuncture in children with ADHD, noting growing interest in this area as part of integrative care. While the evidence base is still developing, these findings support auriculotherapy as a promising, gentle adjunct — particularly for those seeking drug-free options. SAGE Publications + 2
Ready to take the next step?
If your child is struggling with focus or restlessness, there are evidence-informed, gentle ways we can support them alongside their current care. Book a consultation at our clinic with Anastasia today Booking | Eastern Therapies
