ABSTRACT
Attention control is a form of self-regulation and as such is thought to be essential for the development of executive functions. Attention and listening skills also play a critical role in social communication, social development and social adaptation. There are many factors that might affect the development of a child’s attention and listening skills. These include: a sensory impairment, an underlying neurodevelopmental disorder, auditory processing disorder, emotional and behavioural disturbances, physical and physiological disturbances, noisy home environment, and noisy learning environments. Eye contact and eye gaze are also important for regulating communication, as it helps to initiate and maintain successful social interactions. Most children have an innate curiosity about themselves and their world, and infants soon discover that objects and people exist apart from themselves. Joint attention supports the development of social interaction, communication and language development. Older children may benefit from continued support and practice with following directions, giving directions to others, turn taking and social interaction.
