As exams are approaching, most parents are nervous and worried. Parents tend to wonder if the child is studying enough and how they can assist their children progress better in their studies.
This is a challenge for most parents, especially when the child is underperforming. Children shrug away from study time or will rather spend time listening to music on headphones or reading novels while parents are under the impression of the child studying. Some literally doze off and this will only be evident in results attained.
However, as a parent, it’s your responsibility to ensure the child studies.
According to writer Peggy Gisler, “study after study has shown that parental involvement is the number one determinant of how well children perform regardless of their background work done at school”.
Showing interest in your child’s studies will motivate the child to work harder.
Children do not understand the importance of study. Explain to them why they have to study and give examples of successful people who have made it through study. The child will be more focused and determined if they know the reasons they have to study.
Be of the notion that all good things come to those who work hard.
Create a conducive environment for your child to study. Isolate a well lit, clean and quiet place for your child to study. Switch off the television and computer. Try as much to isolate any distracters. The environment of study has a significant effect on study outcome. The child should concentrate as much as possible.
Be present and participate in the child’s study. Some parents tell their children to study and they go to sleep. If you do this, children tend to also sleep on their study desk. It is advisable to read a book or constantly check on the child. Children will be more alert knowing you are present. Moreover, you can answer challenging questions or explain difficulties to the child.
Set a study schedule. Set a convenient time for your children to study. This should not be when they are exhausted and sleepy or when their favourite programme is on.
Consider your own commitments and schedules so you can effectively monitor progress in studying. Once the children have a study schedule, it becomes routine and they will find it easier to study even in your absence.
Relate constantly with your child’s teacher and find out your child’s challenges. Children tend to be reluctant and averse when working on concepts they find challenging. However, if you ignore the problem, it will become more difficult to solve. Try to ensure your child revises everyday’s work. Assist your child in understanding their challenges.
Show your child how to be organized. Encourage them to note down all assignments and study hints in one diary or notepad. They should be able to file their papers and pack their books neatly and orderly. Organised children fit more easily at school and know exactly what to do without forgetting their assignments and tests dates.
Know your child’s concentration span and limitations. If study sessions are longer than what the child can bear, they become torture to the child. The child will loath studying and is hesitant when it’s studying time.
Educator Jason Ladock asserts that “every child has their own capacity. Don’t force your child to do something he doesn’t want to. Give your child enough physical exposure so that the mind gets refreshed”.
However, be firm but reasonable. If the sessions are too short, most work is not completed.
Review your child’s study sessions. Read through and ask challenging viewpoint questions. Check your child’s assignments for accuracy and completion. When you review your child’s study sessions consistently, he/she will take studying seriously.
When your child is not studying, discuss leisurely their subjects and find out what their challenges are.
Understand what is happening at school and other issues that are affecting them without being judgmental. Studying requires a pleasant state of mind. Thus, the need to adopt a holistic approach when dealing with your child. Unresolved issues will affect the child’s ability to concentrate.
Praise your child when they pass. Reward them for a good grade. Make a track record of your child’s tests marks. This will enable you to know what to focus on more. Encourage them when they fail a test and make your child believe he/she can improve.
Always know your non-verbal communication rings loudly to children. You should show enthusiasm in their studies then your children will become more determined. Commanding your child to study without taking an active role in their studies does not help much to most children. If you consider and apply these tips, your child’s grades will improve and they will be able to unleash their full potential.
Remember “hard work yields good results.”
