CREATE A STUDY PLAN THAT WORKS FOR YOUR CHILD

By middle school, your child should have a sense of the study plan that works best for him. If he is still studying in a haphazard fashion, he is robbing himself of the chance to do his best in school.

His plan should include things like:

• When to study. If possible, your child should study when he feels sharpest and most alert. For some kids, it’s right after school. For others, it’s after dinner.

• Where to study. Your child should avoid distractions when studying for a test. If this is not possible at home, he may need to try the library.

• How to focus. If your child is in a comfortable and quiet place, but still can’t set his mind to work, he may be tired, hungry, thirsty or in need of a burst of exercise. Listening to and acting on these signals from his body may help his mental sharpness.

• Methods that work. Some kids read a chapter and take notes from it. Some photocopy the chapter so they can use a high lighter on the pages. Some ask parents to quiz them. Some make flashcards. Help your child figure out the methods that best help him retain information. Remind him to keep necessary supplies on hand and tell you when he is running low.