It’s Monday morning at 6:45. You’re calling out to the kids to hurry up so they can grab breakfast before the school bus comes. They come barrelling into the kitchen, backpacks are on their backs, but books, papers, and pencil pouch are in their hand. In your most calm voice you say “why are you carrying your things? Put them in your backpack, Sweetie. To which one or both of them respond, I forgot to Waaa, Waaa, Waah.
In your eutopian mind you are proud of your kid for mastering another language, because you didn’t understand a word they said after “I forgot to”. But then you realize, Oh no, I blacked out! This is happening AGAIN?! HE hasn’t completed his assignment. She just remembered she has a quiz this morning!!!!!!!!!!!!
Study habits are just that: Habits. Routines. Plan of Action. Dare I say, we’re talking about DISCIPLINE.
The root of the issue is discipline. What plan do you have in practice to ensure good study habits in your home- and I’m not just referring to academics.?
- Set a place to study.
I have a specific place where I do my devotional and quiet time. I am comfortable and not distracted by others in my place. Help your child (and you) claim a space to study.
2. Bring what you need, but leave what you don’t.
Make sure you have everything you need for the subjects you’re going to study. Paper, notes, books, pens, pencils. If possible do not bring electronic devices into your study area. If you need your laptop, only use it for studying- no games or for older kids, checking messages etc.
3. Outline and Rewrite your notes.
I know this sounds like a lot, but it is Oh-so helpful. For younger kids, simply writing a sentence about what they learned, or repeating what they’ve learned (oral report) is helpful. Teach them how to make flash cards- jotting down points to remember on one side and topics on the other.
4. Use Mneumonic or Memory games.
This method was gold for my daughter. You can string words or letters together to help them remember key points, such as acronyms or rhymes. This only works if it makes sense to them. If your child is more analytical, fact driven, this may not be the most effective way to memorize information.
5. Quiz yourself or have someone quiz you.
If they do not have quiz questions, make some up and allow them to practice answering. The key is practice.
Setting the tone, having a routine that works for your household is imperative. But one thing is sure, if you do not practice, it will not happen!
We’ve been talking about study habits, but this is really about how disciplined WE are in our faith walk.
Do our children see us going to our Place to study with out distraction, writing notes, memorizing scripture? Do they hear us repeating scripture to make sure we know it?
WE SET THE TONE IN OUR HOMES- they follow!!!!
Keep Living Out Loud.
in HIM, terry