Creating A Place to Study

Parents and community leaders expect schools to emphasize teaching the basic skills: reading, writing, and arithmetic. But parents also need to work with children on another basic skill: how to study.

Just as you need space to work when you cook, work on the computer, or think, your child needs space for learning. How that space is arranged, set up, and used all affect good study habits.

Even in the early grades, your child will benefit from a place of his own that is quiet, well-lighted, and comfortable.

Where should the study area be? Put it in a quiet area with as few distractions as possible. The best place would be away from the loud noise and heavy traffic of family life.

Try to enforce a "quiet time" or a study period so all students in the family can concentrate.

Background Noise
You may not buy your child's argument that he studies better with rock music on the stereo, or while sitting in front of the TV. Most educators won't either!

Recent research shows that while many students learn best when it's quiet, others find that some background noise energizes their minds. Soft music may also help cut down on distracting household noise.

The next time the argument comes up, try a week of quiet study followed by a week of study with soft music. Compare the results.

Equipment and Supplies
At the very least, your child needs a table or desk with a chair tall enough for him to work comfortably.

Arrange the desk so that everything is within reach. As your child gets older, he may need more supplies such as paper, scissors, tape, markers, or a ruler.

Folders, files, and drawers help the child stay organized. They also help him see his progress on big projects. Seeing a project take shape can give him pride in his achievement.

If a special study area for each child is not possible, a table or lapboard might make the child more comfortable. Good lighting and supplies are still important.

Building a family study library is a good idea and doesn't have to cost a lot of money. The basics should include a good dictionary (paperback is fine), a United States map, and a world map or globe. A good substitute for having your own family library is to take your student to the public library.

The public library not only provides a peaceful environment for study, but it also provides wonderful resources to young learners. Libraries are full of print and online reference materials, and librarians can help your child find what he needs. Your child should have his own library card and learn to use it responsibly.

After years of research, we still aren't exactly sure how learning takes place. We do know that it differs from person to person. Setting up a study area for your child can make studying easier, but it won't solve all of his study problems.

·Help him learn to motivate himself by setting up a study-break or rest-study-reward schedule.
·Watch your child as he studies. Ask him to tell you what he is studying and learning.
·Talk with school counselors and teachers about study skills you can help him practice at home.

Remember that children have different study styles. It may take some experimenting to hit on the right combination that will lead to success for your child.

Debbie Wilburn is County Agent/Family and Consumer Science Agent with the Hall (770)535-8290 and the Forsyth (770)887-2418 County Extension Service.