What Is a Realistic Attention Span for Children?

Children’s attention grows slowly and unevenly—and that is completely normal. Research from the American Academy of Pediatrics, Posner & Rothbart (2007), and executive function studies by Adele Diamond (2013) shows that attention develops gradually as the brain matures, especially the prefrontal cortex.

Below are general ranges for how long children can stay with a non-preferred task when they are regulated and supported.

Typical Attention Span by Age

Ages 2–3: 3–6 minutes
Ages 3–4: 5–10 minutes
Ages 4–5: 8–12 minutes
Ages 5–6: 10–15 minutes
Ages 6–7: 12–18 minutes
Ages 7–8: 14–20 minutes
Ages 8–10: 20–30 minutes
Ages 10–12: 25–45 minutes

These are guidelines, not strict rules. Every child’s attention is influenced by:

• their sensory system

• how regulated they feel

• task difficulty

• how meaningful the activity is

• the support and co-regulation around them

A Helpful Reminder

Attention improves when the child feels safe, calm, and engaged—and decreases when they are tired, overwhelmed, or not yet ready for a certain demand. Neurodivergent children may follow a different pattern, which is normal and expected.

At NYT-OT, we look beyond the surface and support the underlying foundations of attention through sensory-informed, relationship-based care.