How Parents Can Create a Study-Friendly Home Environment 

Giving students a space of their own to work creates a tone in your household that studying is a priority. Middle school is the right time to create these study habits and encourage them, so they are ready to put them to use in high school. As parents, support your child by giving them a focused, quiet space to support the importance of good study habits.  

What Does a Study-Friendly Space Look Like?  

There is no “perfect” space in the home for every child to have complete silence and no interruptions. But as parents, we can attempt to give them as close to “perfect” as we can! Have a discussion with your child to hear what fits their needs. Not every child prefers a quiet space, but most would agree not studying in their bedroom is for the best. 

Consider the following characteristics for your study area:  

• A consistent location that your child knows they can go to every day to complete work and study.  

• Distraction-free 

• An independent space where students do not feel they are being watched. 

• Good lighting and basic supplies available. 

Focus Happens When Structure is Clear 

Avoiding distractions and noises that derail focus creates a study environment that warrants success. Your child may tell you that their device “helps” them focus but studies by governing.com show that 2/3 of students are distracted by using digital devices. Set clear, non-negotiable expectations with your child’s devices during study times and while in the study space. If your child requests music, give them an opportunity to show that it aids in studying and they can be successful while listening to music. Work into the study time periodic breaks. 

Supporting Your Child Through Systems 

Students will be more successful with a consistent structure at home when completing homework, projects and/or studying for assessments. Showing students how to take notes can lead to better study habits. Completing homework at the same time each day creates a daily routine and likely removes the need for reminders. Encourage your child to use a planner or system that shows deadlines for their assignments. This will help avoid disorganization and missing work.  

Allow your students to own their assignments and deadlines through their new system. Monitor their progress with their new habits and study area and step in to help as needed. Create productive check-ins and allow natural consequences to do some of the teaching. 

Progress Over Perfection 

Celebrate the habits that are created with your new study space! Encourage your child to be consistent which leads to progress. The real goal for middle schoolers should be to have the ability to sit down and get started. Creating a study-friendly home will help your family achieve this goal.