To have an effective study session, students need a space free of distraction. This means eliminating things such as computer games, the Internet and social networking, television, pets and other family members not focused on learning. Some kids need supervision to ensure they stay on task, especially if there is no choice but to complete schoolwork on the computer. Take time in the evening or on weekends to sit by your child as he studies. You can read a book or magazine, pay bills, plan the household menu for the week or focus on work or school projects of your own.
One thing students lack in the classroom is personalized attention. There are some students who qualify for one-on-one assistance, but unless a child is diagnosed with a learning disability, it is unlikely he will receive this much attention. When your child is working at home, you can provide the attention that supports and motivates learning. Parents familiar with the subject matter can answer questions and offer guidance. If your child is studying subjects beyond your scope of knowledge, you can hire a tutor or help your child formulate questions to take to his teacher.
No matter how focused you are, working for too many hours without taking a break is counter-productive. When children are forced to study without occasional breaks, they feel resentful and end up accomplishing nothing. Plan breaks for your child every 50 minutes when studying. Breaks should be at least 10 minutes and should include physical activity. If you notice your child growing restless before the 50-minute interval, plan breaks more frequently.
Make study time fun. One of the reasons kids struggle with learning is boredom. Though not every lesson is going to thrill them, at least offer a few laughs. This is especially important if your child is putting in extra study time. Learning when you feel challenged or frustrated by the material requires a big commitment. Help your child relieve some of the stress and enjoy the experience with occasional games and rewards.