Parenting a student can feel like trying to be a reluctant tutor, a novice psychologist, and a cheerleader simultaneously. But worry not. Parents can use a few simple and effective tips to best support their child. Here are seven ways to help your budding student.
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Establish a Consistent Routine
Routine is your friend: kids crave the comfort of a consistent schedule, which will give you a framework to set clear expectations for homework, meals, and downtime that can reduce anxiety. This can also aid with a culprit students often face – procrastination – the art of delaying tasks you should be doing now by convincing yourself you’ll do them later. With an established routine, however, your young learner will have more discipline to combat this pesky habit.
Portuguese proverb teaches us this: “Think of many things; do one.” This is a great rule to avoid stress, laziness, and procrastination.
Having made the point above, it’s important to point out that it’s your job as a parent to understand when your kid is being lazy and when they put things off because they are stressed or over-encumbered with assignments. In the latter scenario, you can show them that taking a step back is OK. You can even suggest they use essay writing websites to outsource more daunting tasks. This way, they can focus on the most important assignments for their progress as a student.
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Create a Dedicated Study Space
Create a ‘zone of study’ in a quiet corner of the home – as little as a desk, a comfortable chair, and adequate lighting will do. No TV or clutter should be present in this space. Oh, and that nifty little portable piece of plastic currently known as a smartphone? Leave it outside that zone at all times.
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Encourage Regular Breaks
If you work too much, your spirits won’t stay high for long. Encourage your child to take short breaks – this can help them focus better and reduce the aggravation or fatigue they might be feeling. Think of it as a mini-recess that gives their brain a recharge. Studies indicate that intentional breaks, ranging from 5 to 60 minutes, during study sessions can rejuvenate the mind and body, boosting energy, productivity, and focus.
When discussing study breaks, mentioning the famous and time-tested Pomodoro Technique is important. This is how it works:
Source: LinkedIn
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Be Available and Approachable
Sometimes, presence is enough. Saying just a few well-chosen words can make a huge difference. Your readiness signals that you value the work your child is trying to do and care about their work struggles.
If your child is stuck on math or asking for guidance about the project, you may find this readiness invaluable. You can offer them a kind word or advice on helpful resources like Top Essay Writing samples or online tutors. This can go a long way in showing your young student that they can rely on you for your kindness and wisdom.
Here are a few phrases that can show your child that you care:
Show Readiness To Listen “Whenever you want to talk, I’m here to listen, no matter what it’s about”
| Show Readiness To Listen | “Whenever you want to talk, I’m here to listen, no matter what it’s about” |
| “If something’s on your mind, I’m all ears and here for you” | |
| “Feel free to share anything with me. I’m always ready for a chat” | |
| “Remember, there’s nothing too big or small to talk about with me” | |
| “I’m here for you, so let’s sit down and talk whenever you need” | |
| Show Understanding | “I understand how you’re feeling; it’s completely normal to feel this way” |
| “I’ve felt that way before, too. It’s okay to feel like this” | |
| “It sounds like you’re really going through a lot. I get it” | |
| “That must be really tough. I can see why you’d feel that way” | |
| “I hear you. It makes sense to feel upset in this situation” | |
| Show Acceptance | “I love you just the way you are” |
| “You make me proud, no matter what” | |
| “I’m always on your side, always” | |
| “You belong, and you’re perfect to me” | |
| “Your choices matter to me, and I support them” |
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Celebrate Efforts, Not Just Results
Applaud the process, not just the As on the report card. Celebrating the efforts can build a growth mindset of valuing diligence over intrinsic talent. So cheer on the hours spent on the history essay or the extra math practice before a test.
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Encourage Reading for Pleasure
Aside from teaching your child to read what’s assigned at school, encourage them to read more. Here’s how to do it:
- Provide a Variety of Reading Materials: Stock your home with various books, magazines, and comics. The more choices they have, the more likely they’ll find something they love.
- Set a Reading Time: Establish a daily “quiet time” for reading. This can be right before bed or on a lazy Sunday afternoon, making it a relaxing habit, not a chore.
- Lead by Example: Let your kids see you reading. Your enthusiasm for reading can be contagious!
- Visit the Library Together: Make trips to the library a regular adventure. Let them choose their books and maybe even get their library card.
- Discuss What They Read: Show interest in their reading choices. Ask questions about the stories and characters to deepen their engagement and turn reading into a shared activity.
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Stay Coordinated with Teachers
Stay in touch with your kid’s teachers and tutors. You don’t have to have them on speed dial, but going to parent-teacher conferences and reading the school newsletter will provide insights into what’s going on in your kid’s academic life and how to best support them at home.
Be Their Ultimate Fan
In short, do your best. Be a parent to your student, support them through thick and thin, through A’s and D’s, and offer unconditional cheerleading. Being a parent to your student is a dynamic, sometimes frustrating, but ultimately richly rewarding role. Whether they be in grade school, in high school or college, a semester away, a year away or home for good, remember that you aren’t raising just a student. You’re raising a future adult.
