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A break from the usual routine, especially where study habits are concerned, can have a wonderful effect on your child. Simple alterations can turn into powerful tools of encouragement. Here are a few suggestions that could make a world of difference in your child’s motivation to study. By giving them a try, you might just find yourself doing less prodding, and hopefully, experience a reduction in nightly complaints about homework. Changing the Atmosphere. Try taking homework into the backyard or a nearby park where the usual distractions are nonexistent. A special study trip to a restaurant or café, along with a milkshake to sip, can also work wonders. Being in the company of others who are studying, such as people at your local library, can also be very motivational. Altering the Time of Day. Late afternoons and early evenings are the usual times for studying. But if your child is exhausted from the day’s events, early mornings may just work better. With a good night’s sleep children often retain more information and procrastinate less in the early morning hours. Be sure that they go to bed a little earlier so that they are well rested and energetic. A freshly prepared breakfast will also help make a smooth transition from sleep to studies. Helping with Homework. The responsibility to help with a child’s homework naturally falls on parents. For a change of pace, solicit help from an older sibling, a close relative or a family friend. Be sure to establish a clear understanding of the helper’s role—they only are there for guidance, explanations and checking answers. Homework Clubs. Many public schools offer a homework club, which meets every day after school in the library or cafeteria, and runs for about two hours. The clubs are staffed with trained teaching assistants and older students who are available to answer questions or offer guidance. The atmosphere is more casual than a classroom setting, and children are free to go when finished. Peer Interaction. Peers can sometimes offer a better explanation of a homework problem. If it is hard to arrange time for children to get together after school, try letting your child do homework with a friend via telephone. Find a setting where you are within earshot, so you can redirect the conversation if they become sidetracked or distracted. Rewards. Offering to take on one of their chores in exchange for diligent work will give your child a little more free time to spend on homework, without feeling overburdened. Or agree to complete a long awaited task, such as mending a favorite outfit or fixing a treasured possession. Planning a special weekend activity after a week of focused studying also can work as motivation. Don’t forget to point out that education has its own reward. By Karen Howarth-Tuomey |
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