Learning Tools for Elementary School Parents to Use at Home
If your full-of-energy kid has a hard time focusing on anything that doesn't have an "on" button, try some of these tricks to get him focused and learning at home.
- Whether it's a semester-long project or a super-long math assignment, teach your kid to break it into smaller, manageable chunks to avoid feeling overwhelmed.
- Your kid may love to veg out in front of the TV while doing homework, but assigning designated study space is a surefire way to keep her in study mode.
- Follow a routine. Even if you leave room for a little spontaneity, try to make sure your kid eats dinner, does his homework and goes to bed around the same time each day.
- Hang a big (and preferably color-coded) assignment calendar in your kid's room for a glaringly obvious reminder of what's due when.
- When your kid just can't focus, an impromptu study break can be just what your kid needs to power through that geography assignment.
- That Spanish teacher who made you listen to "De Colores" ad nauseam had the right idea: Sometimes a little bit of background music can help your kid focus.
- Make sure your kid is getting a full eight hours of sleep.
- Remember when your old teacher made everyone stand up and do jumping jacks? Turns out a little P.E. (a.k.a. physical exertion) actually does wonders for the old noggin.
- You know those times where all you can think about is the one thing that you shouldn't be thinking about? Have your kid jot down wayward thoughts while studying so she can focus on homework now and distractions later.
- Make sure your kid eats breakfast.
- It's hard to pay attention when you're tired (imagine going to work without your morning coffee!). While you probably shouldn't send your kid to school with a venti latte, pack some protein-rich snacks to help boost his energy.
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