The 10 tried and tested tips to make your child study (even if he hates it!)

Children often run away from two things - one is healthy food, and the other is studies! Growing children, especially those under 10, often do not take studies seriously, and it can be frustrating for both parents and children alike.

Even though each child is different, and can take his/her own time to fully get engrossed in studies, some basic subjects, and concepts should be incorporated and learned by the child early on, regardless of age. If you too, are struggling to get your child to study, these 10 simple tips might help...

Get to the root cause

Before trying to make your child study, it’s important to understand the reasons behind his dislike for studying. Some common reasons include:Lack of interest in subjectsDifficulty understanding the materialFeeling overwhelmed or stressedDistractions like games, TV, or mobile phonesLack of motivation or clear goalsKnowing the root cause helps you address the problem better and find the right solution.

Create a conducive environment

Children find it hard to focus if their study area is noisy or full of distractions. Set up a quiet, well-lit, and comfortable study corner at home. Make sure the study table has all the necessary supplies like books, notebooks, and stationery.Limit distractions by keeping gadgets like phones, tablets, and TVs away during study time. A clean and organized space helps your child concentrate better and makes studying less stressful.

Set a routine

Children work best with a clear routine. Set a fixed time for studying every day so that it becomes a habit. However, don’t expect your child to sit and study for hours at a stretch. Young children have short attention spans.Use the Pomodoro technique—study for 25 minutes, then take a 5-minute break. After four such cycles, take a longer break of 15-20 minutes. This method keeps your child refreshed and prevents boredom.

Make it fun

Studying doesn’t have to be boring. Use creative methods to make learning enjoyable:Use colorful propsEncourage your child to explain what he has learned in his own words.Use educational games, puzzles, or apps related to the subject.Relate study topics to real-life examples that interest your child.When learning is fun, your child will be more willing to study and remember information better.

Set small goals

Large tasks can seem overwhelming to a child.

Break the study material into small, manageable goals. For example, instead of “finish the whole chapter,” set a goal like “read five pages” or “solve three math problems.”Celebrate your child’s progress, no matter how small. Praise and rewards motivate children to keep trying. Rewards don’t have to be big—extra playtime, a favorite snack, or a sticker can work wonders.

Be patient

Avoid forcing or scolding your child to study.

Negative pressure can increase resistance and stress. Instead, be supportive and encouraging. Show interest in what your child is learning and offer help when needed.If your child struggles with a subject, consider extra help like tutoring or study groups. Sometimes, children dislike studying because they find the material too hard.

Encourage a positive outlook

Teach your child that making mistakes is part of learning. Encourage curiosity and praise effort rather than just results.

Help your child understand that studying is not just about exams but about gaining knowledge and skills for life.Share stories of people who succeeded through hard work and learning. A positive mindset can change how your child views studying.

Limit screen time

Excessive screen time can reduce your child’s interest in studying. Set clear limits on TV, video games, and mobile phone use. Encourage outdoor play and physical activities, which improve concentration and reduce stress.A healthy body supports a healthy mind. When children are active, they tend to focus better during study time.

Involve your child

Give your child some control over his study schedule. Ask him when he prefers to study and which subjects he wants to tackle first. Involving your child in planning makes him feel responsible and more committed.You can create a weekly study timetable together and include time for hobbies and relaxation. Balance is important to keep your child motivated.

Communicate openly

Sometimes, children don’t like studying because of problems they face at school or home. Keep communication open and listen to your child’s concerns without judgment.If your child feels stressed, bullied, or anxious, address these issues with the school or a counselor. Emotional well-being is crucial for good study habits.