While most experts discourage formal "workbook" learning situations for preschoolers, it is possible to play in a way that teaches your child good listening skills – which is what paying attention is all about. The following tips come from June Oberlander, a former kindergarten teacher, mother of two and author of Slow And Steady Get Me Ready (Xulon Press, 2002):

• Make a simple drum from a coffee can. Tap on it once and ask the child to copy. He may just pound on it, so repeat your request and ask him to just tap it once. Praise him when he accomplishes the task. Gradually work up to more repetitions, up to four.
• Put some small items, like rice, beans, bells or beads, into small containers. Make two of each container. Shake one container and ask your child to find the matching sound from her containers.
• Act out nursery rhymes using a motion that is triggered by a word in the rhyme. For example, recite "Jack Be Nimble," and at the verbal cue of the word "jump," have the child jump over an unlit candle. This teaches him to listen closely.