It is every parent’s dream to see their children perform brilliantly at school, as good grades influence their future opportunities. However, some kids struggle with school, especially with subjects like mathematics. One of the best ways to help them deal with these challenges is by hiring tutors for math and other subjects they find difficult.
But sometimes that might not be enough, some children need more assistance. So, we will be sharing practical strategies that will help you provide the right support your child needs to improve their academic performance.
Identify The Root Cause of Their Poor Academic Performance
There are numerous reasons why assimilation can be difficult for kids and it’s your duty as a guardian to help them figure out why. Understanding why they struggle with school will also help you develop solutions specific to the issue. Some reasons why kids could have poor academic performance include;
- Learning Disabilities: A child’s learning abilities can be heavily impacted by conditions such as dyslexia and ADHD. If you have your suspicions, you must speak to a specialist who will provide ways for you to manage these conditions on behalf of your child.
- Psychological and Emotional Factors: Children also deal with anxiety and depression that could sever their learning process. You have to talk to them, show them support, and seek professional help in severe cases.
- Abrupt Changes: When kids change schools, move to a new environment, or witness their parents divorce, it alters their focus and motivation to study. They will need emotional support to overcome their academic challenges in cases like this.
Set Achievable Goals
Take it milestone by milestone. Achievable goals could be telling them to read for an hour or two a day before pushing them to study for more. It could also be something like expecting them to score a 60 on their test from a 50. With time and the right support, they will improve and become high achievers.
Try Positive Reaffirmation
Talking down on your child will only ruin their self-confidence and motivation to learn. Instead of being stern, give positive reaffirmation a try. Praise their efforts, not their results, help them understand that setbacks are normal, and continue to encourage them. Kids thrive academically when they are allowed to learn from their mistakes, not harshly criticized.
Make Studying More Fun
Studying doesn’t always have to be boring. You can incorporate a little fun in your child’s learning if you want them to love schoolwork and not see it as a chore. Using a digital flashcard generator, for instance, can make it easier to create custom flashcards tailored to your child’s learning needs.
Develop a reward system by giving them their favorite treat, taking them to their favorite places, or giving them access to their iPads or games once study time is over. You can also try out more fun studying techniques that are slightly gamified, like flashcards, trivia, or other visual learning techniques. These methods help with retention and quicker assimilation.
Create a Structured and Supportive Learning Environment
Set a timetable that factors in other fun and personal activities to give your child a structure that they can follow independently. Timetables help them manage their time properly and prepare their minds for study periods.
You should also create an environment that encourages learning. Get them an ergonomic chair and table, and get them to study in a room free of all technology and human distractions to improve focus.
Conclusion
Kids need all the support they can get in their developmental stages. If you want to see positive changes in their poor academic performance, you have to be intentional about it and put in the work too. Keep providing the help they need till they can achieve academic success independently.