As parents, we want our children to succeed in their studies. We want them to develop effective study habits that will set them up for academic success. But how do we help our kids improve their study habits? In this article, we will explore 11 effective ways to enhance study habits for your kids.
Eliminate Distractions
As much as we want to believe it’s possible, no one can multitask perfectly. Focus and concentration are crucial for completing any project well. And that often means eliminating distractions. This is important for every student, but especially if your child is one of many students diagnosed with ADHD.
And the most common distraction for students? Their mobile devices. Designate a place outside of their study area to stash their phone or tablet during study time. If they need their phone’s calculator, try setting it to airplane mode to disable talk and text.
A mobile device is not the only distraction, of course. A nearby TV or noisy siblings may also make it difficult to focus. If possible, find a study space outside of the home’s common areas. If your child works well with white noise or music, let them turn it on. It may help drown out other distracting noises, helping them focus on their studies.
Set Regular but Short Breaks
Sitting and studying for an hour straight without taking brain breaks will likely produce poor results. Instead, make sure your child takes breaks during study time to refresh their brain.
Many professionals use the Pomodoro Technique to increase productivity — working for 25 minutes, then taking a five-minute break. This is a great place to start when planning study breaks as well. But it’s certainly not the only option.
Try out a few options, see what works best for your child, and stick with it. But don’t force it — one trick may not work forever. If your method stops working, be flexible and adjust as needed.
Does your child need some ideas for those brain breaks? During break time, they can:
- Stretch
- Take a walk
- Grab a snack
- Check in with friends
- Work on a personal project or hobby
The important thing is to set a time to return to work, then get back to it without delay.
Designate Fixed Studying and School Work Areas
During the pandemic, everyone spruced up their home offices. And for good reason! It’s easier to focus and stay productive when you’re in a space you enjoy. And it’s the same for your child.
The kitchen table can be a great space for younger children to work. But as your child moves into middle and high school, they may need a desk they can customize and settle into. One that is away from the distractions of the main living areas.
If it’s time to upgrade their desk, let them have fun decorating their new space! Choose a desk large enough for textbooks, notepads, and their computer. Then add in some color and personality with a customizable cork board and accessories. When their study space fits their style, they’ll more likely enjoy using it.
FAQs
Q: How can I help my child improve their study habits?
A: You can help your child improve their study habits by eliminating distractions, setting regular but short breaks, and designating fixed studying and school work areas. These strategies will help them stay focused and productive.
Q: What are some effective study breaks for children?
A: Some effective study breaks for children include stretching, taking a walk, grabbing a snack, checking in with friends, and working on personal projects or hobbies. These activities help refresh their brain and prevent burnout.
Conclusion
By implementing these 11 effective ways to improve study habits for your kids, you can set them up for academic success. Remember to eliminate distractions, set regular breaks, and provide a dedicated study space. With your guidance and support, your children will develop effective study habits that will benefit them throughout their educational journey. So let’s create an environment that promotes focused and productive studying.