Helping Your Child Study Smarter, Not Harder 

Do you notice your child becoming anxious at the mention of a test or quiz? Are they avoiding studying because they don’t know how or don’t want to think about it? Here are some study tips to help your child prepare for their upcoming assessments rather than avoid them. 

Are You Ready?  

Recognize what material needs the most attention by assessing your child’s level of understanding for the content being tested. Walk through each of the item of content that will be assessed and highlight each a different color to show level of understanding. Then prioritize studying the “RED” material first which will take up most of the time in your student's study schedule. Walk through all material, spending the least amount of time on the “GREEN” material. 

• “I understand this concept really well.” - GREEN  

• “I understand the basics but could use more review.” - YELLOW 

• “I don’t understand this material and need more practice and review. - RED 

Finding Your Child’s Best Study Spot 

Choosing a study space that works for your child is important for optimal results when studying. Using this space every study session gives them the best opportunity to focus and use their time effectively. Consistent study spaces also help train their brain and bodies to be in study mode when at that specific location. Consider choosing a location that is quiet with no visual distractions. Assess what is best for your child by having them complete the Study Skills: Study Environment worksheet to help them create the perfect study environment. 

Studying Smarter 

To help your child get the most out of their studying, try the following study tips: 

1. Map Out Your Study Schedule

Help your child create a study schedule for each assessment based on your child’s knowledge of the material, and the amount of time given between the test announcement and the date of the test. Leave the night before the test free of studying and use for a quick review. Chunk the material being assessed into manageable amounts for each night. Studying 15-30 minutes each night will increase retention of information and preparedness for the test/quiz, rather than cramming the night before which can lead to test anxiety on the day of.  

2. Spaced Repetition 

Using the highlighted materials and your child’s study schedule, choose short and frequent study sessions. Repeat studying materials in intervals over time to avoid cramming and last-minute studying. Your child will notice they are less likely to forget material using this method.

3. Use a Technique Based on Your Student’s Learning Style  

Different children learn best through different methods of studying. Using your student’s learning style- visual, auditory, or kinesthetic- will tailor their study habits using their preferred style. This allows them to absorb and retain the study materials.

4. Focus 

Encourage your student to use their study space for all studying. Eliminating all distractions, such as their phone, will increase their attention to studying the materials and manage their time. The Pomodoro Technique structure includes breaks for your child, eliminating procrastination and keeping them on track by studying for 25 minutes and then giving them a 5-minute break.  

5. Practice Studying with Test Type 

Understanding the type of test your child is studying for will eliminate anxiety and improve their studying. Practice recalling material in the same format (multiple choice, true/false, short answer) will increase confidence in your child.  

Turning Test Anxiety into Test Readiness 

Helping your middle schooler develop effective study habits now sets the stage for confidence and independence later. You will see a more confident child and habits being created. With your support, your child will shift from avoiding tests to approaching them with a plan, so when test day comes, they'll be ready.