Building good study habits that stick

The New Year is here, bringing the perfect opportunity for a “fresh start” on building good study habits. With the school year already in full swing and schedules packed to the brim (I completely understand how overwhelming it can get), now is the perfect time to hit pause, reset and refocus on what truly matters. If you’re anything like me, you’re probably thinking about how you can help your kids not just stay afloat with their schoolwork but truly succeed, and GET AHEAD!

As a parent and educator, I’ve worked with so many students who started out struggling with school. And let me tell you, the transformation that happens when they pick up effective study strategies is so rewarding. I’ve seen kids go from overwhelmed and unsure to confident, resourceful and ready to tackle challenges head-on. Watching that kind of growth is a reminder that with the right tools and a little guidance, every kid has the potential to thrive.

And here’s the thing: January is golden. It’s like the universe handing you a fresh slate and saying, “Let’s do this!” It’s the ideal time to help your kids establish routines that make school feel less stressful, homework less of a battle, and learning way more fun. Let’s dive into some ways to set your kids up for success and maybe make your life a little easier while we’re at it!

5 simple tips for building study habits that stick

1. Set Up a Distraction-Free Study Space – A dedicated, quiet study space helps kids get into the mindset for learning. Try to choose a spot in the house that’s away from noise, screens, or other distractions. Equip the space with school supplies, books, and good lighting, so everything they need is within reach. A clean, organized space can make it easier to focus and can also signal to kids that this is a “work zone.”
2.  Teach Organization and Planning – Learning to plan out study sessions and keep track of assignments can boost both efficiency and confidence. Help your child use a planner or a calendar to track test dates and project deadlines. Show them how to break tasks into smaller steps and set goals for each study session. This teaches them not only to manage their time but also to reduce the stress of last-minute cramming.
3. Encourage Active Learning Techniques – Simply reading through notes isn’t always the most effective way to study. Encourage kids to try active learning methods, like summarizing information in their own words, teaching the material back to you, or using flashcards and practice tests. These interactive techniques make the information stick better and help kids understand the material more deeply.
4. Take Breaks and Practice Self-Care – Studying for long periods can lead to burnout, especially for younger students. Teach your child the importance of taking short breaks to rest and recharge. Try the “Pomodoro Technique,” where kids study for 25 minutes and then take a 5-minute break. Remind them to stay hydrated and to get plenty of sleep, especially before a test day. A well-rested brain is better at remembering and processing information.
5. Praise Effort, Not Just Results – Academic growth is a journey, and sometimes learning new material takes time. Praise your child’s efforts and progress, even if they didn’t get the grade they hoped for. This helps them see that learning is about improvement, not just perfect results, and builds resilience when they encounter challenges.

While developing strong study habits is a great foundation for academic success, some students may still find certain subjects or tasks challenging, despite their best efforts. If your child continues to struggle or feels overwhelmed, it may be time to consider additional support through tutoring. A tutor can provide personalized guidance to help your child strengthen their understanding, build confidence and improve their study skills further.

When to enlist additional support

If you notice your child showing some of these signs, it might be time to look into tutoring or additional support:

• Consistently Low Scores: If their grades don’t improve despite studying, this could mean they’re struggling to grasp the material and need more personalized guidance.
• Frustration and Avoidance: If your child seems frustrated, anxious or avoids schoolwork, this could indicate they feel overwhelmed and could benefit from extra help.
• Falling Behind in Class: If they can’t keep up with new material or seem lost during homework, they might need help with foundational skills to keep up.

Early intervention can make a world of difference by helping your child build skills and confidence to handle future challenges.

Tisha Clay is a passionate advocate for student literacy with over 20 years of experience in education. She has served as a classroom teacher, instructional leader and educational director, dedicating her career to helping students overcome academic challenges, empowering parents, enhancing teacher effectiveness, and supporting schools in achieving their goals. As the owner and founder of Clay Academics. Tisha leads an education center committed to helping every student unlock their full potential. Beyond her professional work, she and her family live in Edmond, where they actively contribute to their community and participate in various local organizations.

Tisha is also the author of Brayden and the Big Test, a heartwarming children’s book that follows Brayen, a young student who learns strategies to overcome test anxiety and build confidence. Through Brayden’s journey, the book provides encouragement and practical tools to help children tackle academic challenges with a positive mindset.

For tutoring services or information about her book, Brayden and the Big Test, contact Tisha Clay at 405-531-0716 or clay.academics@gmail.com. For information about her book, Brayden and the Big Test, email her at authortishaclay@gmail.com.