How Can I Help My Child Study Effectively? A Parent’s Roadmap
Academic life can be challenging—not just for students, but also for parents. A recent study found that about 64% of parents are concerned that their child isn’t reaching their full potential. If you’re among them and often ask, ‘How can I help my child study effectively?’ This blog has the answer you’re looking for.
With the heaps of homework, test prep, and college applications, it can feel like a never-ending race. But you can be your child’s biggest supporter. By understanding the hurdles they face and implementing some key strategies, you can guide them toward academic success.
Let's explore some of the most common struggles kids encounter and how you can facilitate your child's intellectual development.
Why Your Kids Find It Difficult to Study: Problems and Challenges
Your children go through a range of complex emotions and challenges during their academic journey. These challenges can take a toll on their mental health and academic performance, leading to anxiety, stress, and burnout. Even the most gifted and brilliant students sometimes struggle to focus properly.
Here is a breakdown of some common reasons why children struggle with studies:
1. Lack of Motivation
Motivation is one of the biggest reasons why children struggle with their studies. A recent report from Gallup states that many Gen Z high schoolers are not motivated to attend school due to a perceived lack of purpose in their education. This highlights that motivation is the driving force that initiates, guides, and sustains goal-directed behavior.
Source: The 74
Numerous factors can contribute to students' lack of motivation. Challenging subjects can create feelings of discouragement. Sometimes, teaching methods don’t resonate with students' learning styles, making the learning process monotonous. Additionally, an unsafe or uncomfortable environment can also impact a student’s learning abilities.
2. Constant Distractions
Getting distracted is a primary reason why students are unable to study properly. The constant presence of technology, such as social media, videos, calls, and messages, makes it extremely challenging to maintain focus.
A survey conducted among U.S. parents highlights that “too many distractions” is one of the top reasons children are unable to complete their homework. This constant flow of information demands a conscious effort from students to create a conducive learning environment.
Source: Narbis
3. Poor Time Management
Time management has a very strong impact on students' academic development, yet many struggle with it. It often stems from procrastination or continuously postponing important responsibilities.
Delaying important tasks until the last minute leads to a vicious cycle: students avoid studying, which increases anxiety and pressure as the deadlines approach. This pressure further fuels procrastination and creates a difficult situation where students are constantly patching up.
Proven Tips and Strategies to Help Your Child Study Effectively
Witnessing your children struggle academically can be extremely challenging for a parent. Remember, academic achievement depends on multiple factors, such as combining the right habits with a positive attitude and a conducive learning environment.
Here are some research-backed tips and techniques you can employ to help your child study effectively while maintaining your own sanity:
1. Create a Dedicated Study Space
Does your child have a dedicated study space free from distractions? If not, create one!
Choose a quiet corner or a designated room in your house and transform it into a productive learning environment. Pay attention to their comfort and choose a seating arrangement that helps maintain the right posture and minimize discomfort.
Studies show that students who study in a well-lit environment achieve 25% better grades than those who don’t. Ensure the space is well-lit and equipped with necessary study supplies like calculators, books, and stationery. Also, encourage your child to take ownership of their study space by keeping it organized and tidy.
2. Avoid Multitasking
You might be surprised to learn that only 2% of the population can truly multitask. Constantly switching between different tasks not only increases the likelihood of errors but also reduces productivity by up to 40%.
The human brain can not properly encode information in long-term memory if it is divided between multiple stimuli. This eventually leads to a negative impact on cognitive abilities and IQ.
Instead of multitasking, encourage your children to complete one task at a time with better focus and dedication. For instance, avoiding checking emails or replying to text messages during study time will help them absorb more information for longer periods.
Source: Digital Branding Institute
3. Utilize Time Management Tools
Utilizing tools is one of the best time management tips for parents who want to improve their kids' academic performance. A shared timetable planner is a powerful tool for you and your child. Include all upcoming deadlines, exams, social events, and other commitments in these planners for a complete visual overview of your child’s schedule.
Furthermore, setting timely reminders keeps you both informed and accountable. It is a proactive approach to time management that creates a sense of commitment and reduces the stress associated with last-minute deadlines.
4. Practice Mock Tests and Exams
Experiencing school and exam stress is common among students. This stress, when it crosses a certain threshold, can lead to depression and anxiety. To mitigate this, make sure your child is fully prepared for the exams.
Source: Research Gate
Memorizing and reviewing the learning content alone might not be enough. Try to incorporate mock tests and quizzes into your child’s study routine. Utilize flashcards, engage in verbal discussions, and break learning material into manageable chunks (multiple-choice questions, short answer questions) for easy learning. This will build confidence in them and reduce exam-related anxiety.
5. Learning Through Gamification
One style or approach doesn’t fit all students when it comes to learning. Gamification is an unconventional approach that emphasizes the practical exploration of concepts through fun and engaging activities. Students can earn different rewards, badges, and incentives upon completing tasks.
Here are a few strategies to incorporate gamification:
- Engage children in puzzles, crosswords, and board games related to their academic concepts.
- Use role-playing, storytelling, and puppetry to enhance vocabulary, communication, and expressive language skills.
- Employ building blocks and online educational games to promote learning through sensory exploration and observation.
6. Set Regular Breaks
While too much focus is placed on studying hard, let's not undermine the importance of regular breaks. Research shows that taking short breaks (5 to 60 minutes) throughout the study sessions enhances energy and productivity.
Instead of mindlessly scrolling through social media, allow your kids to use these breaks for rejuvenating activities. This could include deep breathing exercises, light physical activity, listening to music, or simply connecting with their surroundings.
Allowing short breaks during the study session prevents burnout and promotes a more sustainable and effective learning experience.
7. Seek Professional Help
Even with the implementation of the right strategies, your child may struggle academically. If you observe persistent signs of distraction, impulsivity, restlessness, or difficulty in concentration, consider seeking professional evaluation.
Learning difficulties such as ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) are prevalent among school-going children. In the U.S., an estimated 1.6 million elementary school children have been diagnosed with ADHD.
Supporting a child with special needs requires the guidance of professionals such as psychologists, ADHD coaches, or counselors. Early identification and intervention can maximize your child’s academic and social development.
8. Take Care of Yourself
You can’t pour from an empty cup. Prioritizing self-care is essential for parents, especially during times of increased stress.
Remember to take time for yourself, even just a few minutes each day. Eat nutritious meals, establish a consistent sleep routine, and engage in activities that bring you joy and relaxation.
Don’t hesitate to ask for help from family, friends, or other support systems. Whether it's babysitting assistance, emotional support, or simply a listening ear, you don't have to do it alone. Prioritizing self-care helps you to be the best version of yourself for your child and your happiness.
Nurture Your Child’s Success With Level Up Parenting
Being a parent is a constant juggle, and helping your child study effectively is just one piece of the puzzle. It requires patience, planning, and a commitment to find what works best for your kids.
While the above-mentioned techniques provide a strong foundation, every child is different. Try to find their learning style and interests. What sparks their curiosity? Where does their passion lie? This will cultivate the love of learning, which will help them thrive in all aspects of life.
As a parent, you need constant support and guidance on this incredible journey. Level Up Parenting is here to equip you with all the knowledge you need. This digital community provides you with science-backed mental strategies, valuable resources, and support for your well-being throughout your parenting journey.