Ways to Improve a Child's Study Habits

Talk to your child about school and what they hope to accomplish academically. Often, students do not understand why they should focus on math or reading when they are more interested in sports or art.

An easy way to increase your child's studying is to relate the subjects they are struggling in to their interests. For example, if your child is interested in acting, explain to them that reading is important so they can understand and memorize their lines. They need to know that they will have to research their role to understand the time period or profession they are portraying. They would also need an understanding of math to manage their banking accounts.

The subjects your child is studying can be related to almost any profession, often they just need to see the link between the two to have some motivation to perform well in school.

Create a Study Plan

Place restrictions on television, video and computer games, and other distractions during a specific block of time each day. Doing so will automatically set aside a time for your child to increase their studying in school subjects like math and reading.

This disciplined atmosphere is often necessary because students, especially those who are frustrated with school subjects and homework, are usually more interested in other activities after school.

Offer Your Assistance

Be available to help your child during their study sessions. Making sure to be in the same room shows that you, the parent, are supportive of your child's school work and studying. This also gives you an excuse to make sure they are staying on-task.

Talk with your student about their homework to find what they are struggling with. Offer to go through their homework with them but make sure to let them do the majority of the work and take a supportive role instead of taking over. When you discuss the reading and math problems, make sure that you are talking at an even level instead of being a superior. Even though you probably understand the work your child needs help with, don't discourage them by telling them it is easy or they should understand how.

Positive Reinforcement

Now that your child is increasing their study habits, make sure to reward them for their efforts. This could be something simple, like cooking them their favorite meal, playing a game with them, or taking them to their favorite park during the weekend.