Tips for savvy studying
Helping children succeed in school is one of the most important things parents can do, but studying for that exam can be exhausting, frustrating and, at times, seem hopeless to your child.
“Whatever advice you offer your children, first and foremost make sure they don’t panic,” says Kathy Gigantiello, RN, parenting educator at Virtua Health. “All kids and teens, in order to successfully pass that exam, need a plan of action. Most students put off studying until it is too late and often struggle when it comes to the actual testing day. Parents should play a proactive role in their children’s overall studying habits.”
Gigantiello offers the following suggestions to jump-start your child’s studying habits.
Tip #1: Start studying in school
Studying effectively for tests and quizzes actually starts in the classroom with good note taking.
Tip #2: Use a small voice recorder
Ask your child’s teacher if he can bring a small battery-operated tape recorder to class. This will allow him or her to record the lesson while taking notes, then go back and fill in the important points later.
Tip #3: Don’t be afraid to ask questions
If the teacher is going too fast or your child has a question, make sure he or she knows it’s okay to ask the teacher to repeat something or spend time after class to review notes.
Tip #4: Study in manageable pieces
Instead of trying to memorize everything at once, devote study time to each section of work that is assigned. For example, studying the history of World War II can be overwhelming. Suggest studying in two-year chunks or by specific battles.
Tip #5: SQ3R
This tip is one that has survived for generations: Survey. Question. Read. Review. Recite. When your child studies, he or she will need to review notes and any special information from the textbook. And remind your child to pay special attention when the teacher emphasizes, “This will be on the test.”
Tip #6: Concentrate
Have your child study in timed sessions without any distractions. Promise your child that after 45 minutes of studying, he or she can take a 15-minute break.
Tip #7: Study with a group
Some people like study groups. They allow your child to go over things with others who are studying for the same test. It may help your child recall information better if he or she compares notes and reviews subject matter with friends. Remember, study groups should be structured, so suggest meeting in the library where they’ll be forced to be low-key.
For more guidance check out these articles:
* Helping your gradeschooler with homework (for parents)
* Helping your teen with homework (for parents)
* Homework help (for kids)
* Tips for savvy studying (for teens)
* How to make homework less work (for teens)