Wednesday, September 03, 2008 Studying made easy By Betty Bagares-Poyogao Pedia-cosset
LAST week, I saw how my niece prepared for her quarterly exams. Looking back, I remembered how I was when I was her age. I couldn't remember exactly how I prepared for my exams at that time. I assumed that I was a diligent student. (I have my evidence: a ribbon that says, most diligent). Anyway, so much for self-appreciation. The exams are over but I just want to share some insights on establishing good study habits for your children. I am not a parent... yet. But these insights are based from my experiences in the past and the experiences I had with my nephews and nieces.
For the parents, it is a struggle to get your children to study everyday.
Imagine doing it for the next five to ten years perhaps. But studying can be fun both for you and your child. It need not be a burden, you know.
After a day's work, you as a parent need to take some time to relax before starting the session with your child. Eat a healthy, light meal that will keep you alert and alive, not sleepy. Same goes to your child. Overfeeding will never do him good.
Establish a schedule for your child. Let him know that there is a time for school, a time to play, a time to eat, a time to sleep and rest and a time to study. When he is aware of his routine, studying will be made easy.
A good, favorable place to study is what your child needs. A place where all he could see are books, notebooks, pencils, paper and other school stuff. A place where he knows that he is there to study. A place where there are no distractions, no televisions.
Children have a limited attention span. Be aware that they need to have a break once in awhile when the need arises. Otherwise, they will get bored, unless of course, if your child really loves to study, you will never have a problem. Don't be too hard on your child. Don't shout at him or scold him if he can't cope. Psychologically, it may have an effect on him.
Make it a habit to make studying fun for your child; don't let him feel that it is a burden for him. Learning will be easier for him if he enjoys reading, writing and studying. As a parent, don't let him feel that it is a burden for you to teach your child. After all, it is our responsibility to guide him and teach him on things. Make it a time to bond with your child. Offer words of encouragement and praises for your child. It will really do him good.
