Families Should Set Guidelines to Ensure Quality Studying

Every family needs to set its own guidelines for studying at home according to Renette Wardlow, human development specialist, University of Missouri Extension.

“Differences in guidelines occur because of the different ages of students,” said Wardlow.

For example, younger children have less homework, but it generally requires more parent supervision. As children grow older, developing the a skill of independently tackling homework without parent help becomes important.

“Children, young and old, both need a good place to study and a specific time to study, with minimal distractions,” said Wardlow.

Developing the proper frame of mind for studying will help reduce distractions and bring about positive results. There are several ways this can be done.

“For example, the night before you know you’ll have to do a lot of studying, be sure to get a good night’s sleep,” said Wardlow.

It is also important to plan ahead, organize studying around a regular schedule and get materials organized. This is important in order to find what is needed when you need it, to get assignments done on time and to not procrastinate.

“Focus on your strong points. Think about the things you do best in school and develop a positive self-image,” said Wardlow.

It is important to study in a comfortable place that has good lighting in order to not strain your eyes and not feel tired. Wardlow also recommends avoiding distracting music during study times.

“It is true that some people study well with background music, and for different people different kinds of music will suit,” said Wardlow.

It is also a good idea to not watch the clock or count the pages you have left while trying to study according to Wardlow. Getting together with friends to study can also be very distracting, especially when everyone is not studying the same topic.