While most teens will study before important tests, getting them into the habit of doing so regularly is another challenge.
Getting your teenager to study is easier said than done. While most teens will study before important tests, getting them into the habit of doing so regularly is another challenge.
Unfortunately, there are no easy steps around learning to study properly and effectively. The habits must be learned and for some teens, this may be stressful and tiring.
However, we have consulted the “study experts” and gathered all the best tips for you to pass on for study success that lasts all year round.
Create a plan/schedule.
Most teenagers have a good idea of what works and what doesn’t work for them. We spoke to one parent who said that their kid could not do evening study as it left them tired and stressed. It turned out their teen needed time (at home) for a half-hour to rest and eat a meal before hitting the books.
Then, the mother found a place for her child to study in the house after they had rested. It worked well when after-school study was a total mess. Find what works for your teenager and accept that one method doesn’t fit all.
Think about rewards or achievements.
You can’t be expected to reward your teenager for studying every day, but you should give them something to look forward to whether it be monthly or by the end of the year.
Think of a nice break away or give them a bit of pocket money so they can treat themselves to a cinema trip or go to a game, especially when they work hard.
Get organised.
If your teenager is a planner than get them a good-sized whiteboard that can be used to plan their strategy for studying. Splash out and get some coloured post-its and use markers so they can track their big projects, plan for tests/exams and note things they are struggling with by moving them along a pipeline.
Have a basic daily checklist for your teen to try to hit their targets but don’t go mad either. The important thing is to make the list manageable, otherwise teens will let themselves down and feel overwhelmed without hitting their daily targets.
Give them the foundations.
This means ensuring your teenager has all the materials and bits and bobs they need to do their work well. Ensure you have spares of everything at home and complete a checklist of things that are needed.
Forgetting a simple rubber or pen can send some teens into a panic, so adopt a mini stationery store at home with the things they need.
Encourage health and well-being.
This can’t be reiterated enough; your teen needs to look after their mental and physical health. You can help by providing healthy meals and supporting your child throughout this journey.
Help them get enough exercise by paying for a gym membership or ensure they keep up their team training. Make sure they rest too and ensure they get enough sleep - even if it means turning the Wi-Fi off at 10 pm.
Talk to your teenager.
You need to keep an eye on your teenager and ensure they are feeling ok about everything. Be their worrier and ensure you support them properly by listening to their worries and issues.
Offer solutions and sit with them as much as you can to help them plan. The struggle is real and try to put yourself in their shoes and know that the pressure is significant. Do your best to be there for your teenager.