HELPING YOUR CHILD DEVELOP A GOOD STUDY HABIT

One of the main things that kids struggle with during their school years is proper study habits. Developing a habit can take a couple of weeks, so be consistent, and implement these ten tips to help them study better.

1. A consistent time and place is best. If your child has a desk, have them use it to study, and they should study at a regular time each day. If no desk is available, establish a “study place” to use each time.

2. Studying should begin immediately when your child sits down. Don’t let them fall into other distractions, like answering emails from friends or doodling. They can do those things later, as a reward for themselves, when they get their studying done!

3. Help your child plan what they need to accomplish. At the beginning of the study session, help them write down exactly what they want to get done (complete two pages of an essay, finish a paper, write a short story, answer ten math questions, learn a new computer function, etc).

4. Large tasks should be broken down into smaller ones. For example, if an essay is to be written, the tasks might include coming up with a thesis, writing a solid first paragraph, planning out the points that need to be covered, researching those points, writing each section, etc.

5. Keep a “log book” or record of needs to be accomplished in each study section. Your child can look over it later and be impressed with them!

6. Keep studying supplies in a handy place, like in a shoe box. Have your child organize them so they can grab what they want quickly, without having to rummage around.

7. Be aware of when your child starts to daydream, and stop them right away. Help them concentrate for blocks of time, but be sure to allow them regular breaks to refresh their brain. Have them try studying for 45 minutes, then resting for 15 minutes.

8. Getting enough sleep is important for effective studying and remembering. Be sure your child has an established bedtime at a reasonable time each night. Avoid caffeine a few hours before bedtime so sleep is uninterrupted.

9. Eating well gives your body and brain the fuel it needs. Children should eat three good meals a day and should not skip breakfast. Try to have them eat a balanced diet of good healthy foods and not too much junk.

10. Exercise will increase memory and study stamina, as well as making you feel generally more confident. Older children should aim for three to four exercise sessions a week, doing 20 or more minutes in each workout session. Always consult your child’s physician before beginning any exercise program.

As children grow into young adults, it’s important that we as parents provide the skills and habits they will need for life. Establishing good study habits now will set them up for success in this new academic section and in the future.