Why use an attention bucket?

Attention and listening skills are the foundation skills on which communication and learning can be build. So, it’s a bit of a no-brainer that supporting the development of these skills needs to be top priority. If we focus on these first, then the support we give to other areas is likely to be more successful. There are lots of skills and approaches that can be used in helping young children to learn how to attend and listen to others. Attention buckets are one of my favourites. They are fun and super engaging, plus, they work! What more could we want, right? 

Attention buckets have become increasingly popular in supporting children in developing their joint/ shared attention. They form the first stage of Gina Davis’ four stage ‘Attention Autism’ programme. The programme supports the development of attention from sharing attention with others to something stimulating, to being able to take turns and then completing an activity independently. 

Who should I use an attention bucket with?

Although the programme was designed for children with Autism, it is actually really helpful for all children that need support with developing early shared attention skills. I have seen the approach used successfully with children with communication difficulties, as well as their peers, in individual therapy sessions as well as group activities in nursery/ reception classes. You can start as young as two (although I have been experimenting a bit using a bucket with my daughter from when she was 9 months old… she loves it!).

If you are finding that a child is tending to play alongside (rather than with) others or struggles to join in with group activities, then this may be a good starting point. Equally the bucket works well as a starter activity when you are needing to make sure you have a child’s full attention before moving on to something else. 

Tools to get you started

A bucket with a lid, which is filled with simple toys which really grab a child’s attention. A good rummage through the party bag section of the supermarket and you will be well on your way.  Some of my favourites are: 

-        Balls with flashy lights

-        Balloon pump and balloon

-        Wind-up toys

-        Bubbles 

-        Squeaky toys

-        Spinners

Nothing it safe in my house! I am like a magpie, pinching anything I think could be useful. 

Giving it a go

Sing the bucket song and then show children one toy from the bucket. You need to hang onto the toy and encourage children to look at it. Then pop it back in the bucket and sing again. 

If you would like to see the attention bucket activities modelled, then check out the ‘Attention Bucket’ video in the Confident Communicators group

Let us know if you have used an attention bucket before and whether you found it helpful. 

To find out more about supporting children with speech and language difficulties join the Confident Communicators Facebook group. 

The group is open to parents/ carers/ grandparents and early years practitioners. 

Do come along and join us!