Study Tips

As summer break comes to an end and school starts up again, it may be difficult for your kids to adjust back to a routine of good study habits. Follow these tips to ensure that they get the homework time they need.

Determine a designated study space.

Avoid distractions and draw a clear line between play time and study time by setting up a study area in a quiet, well-lit place. It should be well-stocked with school supplies, have access to a computer with internet, and plenty of work space.

Make a plan.

How much homework does your child have? Does your child need to study on their own in addition to assigned homework? Which subject does your child struggle the most with? Help your child to prioritize, set goals, and practice time management by keeping track of assignments. Make use of a planner or wall calendar with important deadlines.

Form a study group.

Your child will likely show more interest in completing homework assignments and projects if they can bounce ideas off a friend. Choose a day of the week to invite some of your child’s classmates over so they can help each other out and make studying fun.

Develop a parent-teacher conversation

Your child shouldn’t be playing middleman between you and the teacher. Schedule a periodic meeting with the teacher after hours so you can stay up-to-date on your child’s progress and behavior, and understand more clearly what the main course objectives are. Figure out what topics are most important, what your child should focus on during

at-home study time, and what resources are available for extra help.

Encourage learning

Education begins at home. If your child shows interest in a particular topic, fuel it. Have plenty of books, word games, videos, and other resources available if your child shows a special talent or aptitude. Don’t force anything, but let your child know it’s ok to like

school—learning can be interesting!

Give guidance, not answers

When your kids ask for homework help, give them the tools they need to find the answer, which will be much more helpful for them in the long-run. Direct your child to online homework help sites like the following:

http://www.timeforkids.com/homework-helper/writing-tips

http://www.onlineconversion.com/

http://mathforum.org/dr.math/

http://www.loc.gov/today/placesinthenews/

http://www.newton.dep.anl.gov/aasinfo.htm