When giving directions and instructions to children with attention deficits, how many steps should you aim to keep it to?

• A. 3-4 steps
• B. No limit
• C. 1-2 steps
• D. 5 steps

Answer: (C)

Keeping directions short and concrete is most effective because children with attention deficits often struggle to hold and sequence multiple instructions. By delivering a small number of steps, you reduce the cognitive load and help them focus on one task at a time, which increases the chance they will complete it successfully. After each step, pause to check understanding and completion before moving on, and use simple cues or visuals if helpful. This paced, supportive approach minimizes overwhelm, improves compliance, and builds confidence. Options that propose many steps at once, no limit, or too few steps miss how working memory and attention function, making it harder for the child to follow through.