Tips for Making the Most of the Last Months of School

The warmer weather is on the horizon (finally!), and mid-term reports have been handed out, which mean that there are only a few more months of school. It’s important your child makes the most of the time they have left before June. Here are some tips to help:

1. Wake Up at the Same Time Each Day – This may a tough one for your teen but waking up at the same time each day can actually improve their quality of sleep and give them more energy through the day. That extra, however little, time in the morning can also be a great time to encourage them to try mindfulness, review the schedule for the day or have a complete breakfast.

2. Take Good Notes – This is a skills that is so incredibly helpful when reviewing and studying for tests. As a teacher for grades 6-8, I have found the Cornell Note-taking System very effective for students. Using columns, it makes it easier for students to  record and absorb the information quickly. But, like all educational tools and strategies, one way is not fit for all. So, it’s important to try different note-taking strategies and find the one that works for your child. Have you found a note-taking strategy/tool that works for your child? If so, please share with us in the comments.

3. Do Not Procrastinate – Putting off studying for the test until the night before is never a good idea. Not only does it make for a stressful night the day before the test but it also hinders their ability to retain the material and have a restful night’s sleep. Instead try to encourage your child to review their notes after each class from the beginning of a unit. A quick review of the notes and daily homework completion will ensure they deepen their understanding of the material and feel more confident and prepared for each class.

4. Keep a Balance – School is important but it is only one piece of the puzzle in your child’s life. The best way to achieve success, in school and life, is to have balance. Make sure they don’t overexert themselves with hours upon hours of studying every night. They should also make time to enjoy with family, friends and other activities.
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5. Know When to Ask for Help – Encourage your child that if they are struggling it’s okay to ask for help. They can confide in their teacher after class, ask you, or request tutoring. Tutors can help your child identify their learning needs and work with them every step of the way so they feel confident in their abilities as a learner. The first step to success is the belief in themselves that they can do it.

Julie Diamond, OCT