The home study environment can make or break homework time.  Parents are encouraged to try these ideas that have helped many students experience success.

What Doesn’t Work

The bed is a not a good place to study.  At first, it’s too comfortable and students tend to fall asleep doing homework. Over time, students start to associate homework with their bed and then they can’t sleep when it’s time to sleep.

What Works

It is best for your student to do homework and study in the same place every day.  If possible she should have a desk or some other expanded flat area (this might include the floor as long as it is clear of clutter).

Choose a work area and place homework “to-do” on the left and a “homework completed” folder on the right.  Now work left to right using a structured homework routine.

Deal with Distractions

All family members should know when a student is studying and that she is not to be disturbed.  Try to keep distracting pets and siblings away when it is time to study.

Students who are distracted by noise may benefit from a white noise machine or a fan in the background to help them be less distracted.   Music without words playing in the background is alright as long as your student doesn’t play air guitar or act like he’s the orchestra conductor.

Consider charging phones and other electronics not needed for assignments during homework time.

Get Your Student’s “Buy-in”

Allow your student to participate in making reasonable decisions about her study environment so she takes “ownership” of it.

Need Help Applying These Concepts?

Call 817.421.8780 and ask about Student Success!

© 2009 – 2019, monte w. davenport, ph.d.