Select a consistent place to study.
Some people need total quiet while others can study well with music in the background (try classical music). The key is to find a comfortable place and study there regularly, such as the kitchen table, a desk, a favorite chair, bed, etc. Make sure it has adequate lighting and keep all your study supplies in reach.
Dedicate a space for every class in your book bag.
In the department store aisles, there are boxes and boxes of binders, folders and organizational tools. For every class, dedicate a binder, folder or notebook. There should be a place for class notes, handouts and homework assignments. Some of the larger binders can accommodate all classes. It is really a matter of personal choice; just keep papers separated by class.
Stay organized throughout the year.
Most students have many binders and folders, but they do not use them. Many stuff every single paper from school into one binder. Half of their papers become misplaced or lost. Do not use the “shove” method when papers are returned, i.e. shove everything in one binder. Place them in the correct folder. If you are using a three-ring binder to keep papers organized, take the time to open the metal prongs and place them securely in it. If someone helps you organize your papers, take the time to continue putting everything in its place.
Make your own study guide.
One great way to study is to make a list of the important information from a chapter and write it in your own words. Copy down any words that are written in bold or in italics. Look at chapter headings, section headings and review sections at the end of a chapter for other important information to add to your study guide. Merge this information with class notes.
Talk about assignments with friends.
Discussing assignments with friends is another great way to study. This is very helpful when studying for novel tests. Friendly discussions about books help deepen understanding.
The lessons taught in middle school are building blocks for high school and college. Starting good study habits now will help you later in life. It does take more effort to study and to become organized; however, academic success will make you feel good about yourself and your parents smile.
References
Study Tips, http://www.studytips.org/
This information is from Kellie Hayden’s teaching experience of over 19 years and from being a mother of three children who all at one time attended middle school.
Mental Health Tips for Parents
Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, children and teens have been struggling with more anxiety and depression. But many parents and caregivers are struggling too – and to be there for their child, they need to take care of their own mental health.
Here are a few tips to support your mental health:
Give yourself permission to do a “good enough” job as a parent.
Recognize that your “best” right now may be different from prior expectations for yourself, whether that’s your child’s screen time or your family meal-planning. That’s okay. Use this moment in time to model how important it is to be balanced. Be aware of not setting unrealistic goals for yourself or your child.
When stress is getting the better of you, pause.
If you are in a situation where you might react to your child with intensity or hostility, pause. Take a breath, and go to a separate space until you can react with control.
To help, try asking:
What would I tell someone else in this situation? Would I tell them to respond the way I’m about to respond?
What is the rule that says I need to respond this way? Where did it come from? Am I interested in changing it?
Remember: An intense or hostile reaction will never help. It could, however, hurt your connection with your child. Unless your child is in danger, your best reaction may be no reaction.
Tag in a trusted helper.
This could be your child’s sibling, therapist, guidance counselor, teacher, clergy, family friend, or another parent. It’s okay to say, “I’m noticing that my child is really struggling, but I’m having a hard time connecting with them because of how overwhelmed I am. Can I ask you to play a game with them or take them for a walk?”
Get mental health support.
For your child to be able to come to you, your own tank can’t be empty. If you’re struggling, the greatest gift you can give to your child is to seek mental health support for yourself.
Telehealth services have created more access than ever before. Please don’t give up on finding someone to help. Ask your primary care doctor, contact your local health department, or connect through your employer’s employee assistance program.