How Parents Help Their Children Study

• Break the information into chunks. “What I have found works for our 9-year-old regarding getting ready for tests is to break the information up into smaller sections,” says reader Jane Scott of Illinois. “Sometimes they are so overwhelmed by the amount of content they need to learn, they don't feel capable of learning/remembering any of it. By breaking the information up, one can feel successful when the information is retained and can be ready to move onto more content.

  "Also, make sure they take a snack or stretch break. They can start to feel anxious when all they need to do is get a snack and replenish.”

• Review homework, try memory games. A Houston mom emphasizes the importance of staying on top of daily assignments:

  “First, make sure the child completes all their assigned homework. If parents also check their child's homework, the parent will see if the child understands what they are doing and can review and explain the difficult parts in a way that best suits their child's learning ability. Review the chapters, class material, study sheets, and notes with the child a day or two (or more) before the test, depending on age level.

  "Older children may choose to study with each other if they are good students and have accurate homework and notes. For the few parts that just 'don't sink in', kids and parents can make up silly phrases or clues or jingles to help jog the memory. Because they are silly, the child will remember it and will usually get it right. If the child (with their parents' guidance) has done all of the above, they should feel less stressed and confident to do their best on the test.”

• Practice with your kids. “When my kids have a test for school or for an after-school activity, I make sure to study/practice with them," one parent writes. "The most important is tellingthem they're ready, and I've noticed that gives my kids confidence.Studying/practicing with them also makes it more enjoyable for my kids, this way they don't get bored or loose focus.”
• Basic study skills are key. A parent of a high- school student points out the importance of learning the basic study skills, including note taking, in earlier grades:

  “Children must have good study habits, and know what to study. Chapter review is always a good reference for the test. Make sure to pay attention to the headings in bold. Good note taking is always a good reference….

  "Bottom line, the students need to get and grasp their core subjects at the elementary level, so that they will be prepared for the next level of their education. Just this morning, my daughter's high school teacher told me that he is seeing a lack of organization skills, and his students do not know how to take effective notes.”

Advice for test day