Help your child acquire study habit this term |11 June 2011

Parents and teachers are also playing an important role to make sure the students continue to improve on their performance and develop good study habits.

For some children, studying is part of their daily routine while some have poor study skills. It is therefore important to help your children recognise the importance of developing good study habits.

Having such skill will not only be of great benefit to your children now but in the future as well.

Teachers do their part at school but at home it is the parents’ responsibility to ensure this good habit is instilled in the children.

Try these tips below, maybe you can help your child develop and appreciate their study skills.

No TV or computer time
Children enjoy watching television and while their favourite programme is on it is impossible for them to concentrate on their homework or books.

Parents, this is where you play a good role, make a house rule – when it is study time, it is "no TV" time. A television set that is on will draw youngsters like bees to honey and children will end up forgetting about the books.

If your child prefers computer than TV turn it off too as it can also be a main distraction which can easily prevent your children concentrating, unless it is being put to good use while doing homework or studying.

Find a quiet room, as it is best to introduce your child to a quiet environment when it is study time.

Be there for your child
Make sure to be present when your child is studying in case they need your help. It is important for parents to show they are interested in their children’s learning.

When your child realises you are there to help her through this process, she will be more devoted to studying harder. It is equally important for parents to get familiar with what their children are studying.

Know your child’s learning limit
This is the key to success. Some children can study for hours without taking a break while some need to close the books for a few minutes. Know your children’s learning limit so that you can help them study better.

Teach your child the difference between studying and homework assignments
Encourage your child to do things like taking notes as he is reading a chapter, learn to make a summary of what he has read in his own way and learn to read quickly through material.

A home dictionary is important
Instead of keeping it on the shelf to gather dust, keep it in an accessible place and allow your child to get access to it.

Set goals
Parents should teach their children to recognise their responsibilities and their priorities so that they can succeed.
When children are aware of their priorities it will be easier for them to set goals. Help your child to identify what he or she wants to achieve.

Teach good test-taking skills
Knowing how to take a test is important as it can ease the process for your child.

Talk about tests with your child
Talk about upcoming tests as this can help relieve stress and test anxiety. Talk about past tests and discuss areas of strengths and weaknesses. Keep encouraging your child to do better but do not put pressure on him or her.

Track your child's progress.
It is important to keep track of your child's strengths and weaknesses.

Praise and reward your child
Parents should praise and reward their children for doing well on tests and for the effort they put when studying.

M.B.