Study Strategies
Developing good study habits is one of the most important tools to succeeding in school. You can help your child cultivate good study skills at home by following these five simple tips.
1. Routine: Creating a consistent homework routine is an important part of teaching children good study habits. It is important to set a time and a place for children to study and work on a consistent basis.
2. Study Environment: A child’s study environment is another key to successful studying. Many teachers recommend that a private, quiet space with good lighting and no distractions is the best study environment for kids. Others may suggest changing location from one day to the next to improve motivation and concentration. Try both with your child to see what works best for their individual needs.
3. Breaks: Just as adults are advised to take breaks to improve focus and concentration, children too should take breaks form their homework to prevent fatigue and the feeling of being overwhelmed. This may also motivate concentration and focus.
4. Time Management: Time management is another key study skill to teach children. Set aside plenty of time for homework and help your child create a schedule for long-term projects. It may help to set a timer to help children keep track of their progress and to prevent procrastination. This may also let you know when your child is stuck on a concept and may require assistance.
5. Asking for Help: Struggling to understand new concepts is all part of the learning and studying process. If your child is struggling with a question or subject, encourage them to ask questions in class or to you during homework time. If the problem persists, writing a note to the teacher asking for extra assistance or clarification is always a great idea!
2. Study Environment: A child’s study environment is another key to successful studying. Many teachers recommend that a private, quiet space with good lighting and no distractions is the best study environment for kids. Others may suggest changing location from one day to the next to improve motivation and concentration. Try both with your child to see what works best for their individual needs.
3. Breaks: Just as adults are advised to take breaks to improve focus and concentration, children too should take breaks form their homework to prevent fatigue and the feeling of being overwhelmed. This may also motivate concentration and focus.
4. Time Management: Time management is another key study skill to teach children. Set aside plenty of time for homework and help your child create a schedule for long-term projects. It may help to set a timer to help children keep track of their progress and to prevent procrastination. This may also let you know when your child is stuck on a concept and may require assistance.
5. Asking for Help: Struggling to understand new concepts is all part of the learning and studying process. If your child is struggling with a question or subject, encourage them to ask questions in class or to you during homework time. If the problem persists, writing a note to the teacher asking for extra assistance or clarification is always a great idea!
The following websites provides some great ideas for scheduling a week’s worth of homework, how to alleviate school stress, learning styles, how to get organized, and much more. Check them out below:
(PDF Available in Spanish - Click link on website to access)
Here, please find an article from The National Science Teachers Association on tips for helping your child learn and grow despite your busy schedule. The article provides tips on how to integrate science into your everyday lives and encourage your child’s love for the subject.
Have difficulty helping your child plan for and create their science project? Below are some sites that provide tips for time management and how to be “the guide on the side” rather than the boss when it comes to working on that project!