Procrastination is a common hurdle for students of all ages, often leading to stress and unfinished work. The good news is that with the right tools, techniques, and mindset, students can move from procrastination to action and achieve their academic goals more effectively.
If you’re a parent who is used to hearing “I’ll do it later”, or “I can do that tomorrow”, it’s good to know there are ways to encourage your child to tackle their procrastination and get more organised with their homework and studies.
In this article, we’ll explore some practical strategies, from smart use of apps to effective prioritisation, tailored to students from primary through to secondary age.
Harnessing the Power of Apps and Tools
In today’s digital age, technology can either be a source of distraction or a powerful tool for productivity. The key lies in using it wisely. Here are some apps that can help students initiate tasks and stay on track:
Forest: This app helps students focus by growing a virtual tree that thrives as long as they stay off their phone. It’s an excellent way for students to resist the urge to check social media or play games during study time.
Todoist: A versatile task management app that allows students to create to-do lists, set deadlines, and prioritise tasks. It’s useful for both primary and secondary students to keep track of homework, projects, and revision schedules.
Pomodoro Timer: Based on the Pomodoro Technique, this timer helps students work in focused intervals (usually 25 minutes) with short breaks in between. It’s a great way to make tasks feel more manageable and keep procrastination at bay.
Screen Time: Friend or Foe?
Screen time can be both a major distraction and a useful study tool. The key is teaching students how to use screen time wisely:
Set Screen Time Limits: For younger students, parents can use tools like Apple’s Screen Time or Google’s Family Link to set limits on non-essential apps during study hours. This helps reduce distractions from games and social media.
Educational Screen Time: Encourage students to use their devices for educational purposes, such as watching tutorials, accessing online textbooks, or using interactive learning apps like Khan Academy. This turns screen time into a productive activity.
Scheduled Breaks: Teach students to take regular breaks from screens to reduce eye strain and prevent burnout. The 20-20-20 rule is a good practice: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds. Take a look at our article on mindfulness techniques for some breaktime activities.
Smart Prioritisation: Getting the Most Important Things Done
Smart prioritisation is about identifying which tasks are most important and tackling them first. This not only helps students manage their workload better but also reduces the stress of last-minute cramming:
The Eisenhower Matrix: This technique involves categorising tasks into four quadrants based on urgency and importance. Students can focus on tasks that are both urgent and important first, ensuring that they manage their time effectively.
Set Clear Goals: Encourage students to set daily or weekly goals. For younger children, this might involve completing a certain number of pages in a reading book. For older students, it could be finishing a specific chapter or set of problems.
Break Down Large Tasks: Large projects or assignments can be overwhelming. Teach students to break these tasks into smaller, manageable steps, making starting and staying motivated easier.
Tips and Techniques for Different Age Groups
Procrastination affects students of all ages, but the strategies to combat it can vary depending on their stage of learning:
Primary Age Students
Visual Timetables: Create a visual timetable with your child that outlines when they will do their homework, play, and relax. This helps younger children understand the concept of time management.
Reward Systems: Implement a simple reward system where students earn stickers or points for completing tasks on time. This provides positive reinforcement and encourages them to start tasks promptly.
Secondary Age Students
Accountability Partners: Encourage older students to pair up with a study buddy. They can check in with each other to ensure tasks are started and completed on time, adding a layer of accountability.
Study Groups: Joining a study group can help students stay motivated and learn collaboratively. This is particularly useful for tackling difficult subjects or preparing for exams.
Regular Tutoring Sessions: Building Consistency
One of the most effective ways to combat procrastination is to establish a routine. Having a regular tutoring session each week provides structure and ensures that students consistently review and reinforce their learning.
At Tutor Doctor, we understand the importance of consistency in education. Our tutors work with students to create personalised learning plans that cater to their unique needs, helping them overcome procrastination and build effective study habits. With a set time each week dedicated to learning, students can better manage their workload and confidently approach their studies.
Transform the Approach to Learning
Procrastination doesn’t have to be a barrier to academic success. By using the right tools, managing screen time effectively, prioritising tasks smartly, and implementing age-appropriate techniques, students can transform their approach to learning. Coupled with regular tutoring sessions, these strategies can help students move from procrastination to action, paving the way for a more productive and successful academic journey.
Interested in helping your child develop better study habits? Find your nearest Tutor Doctor today and find out how our tailored tutoring services can support your child in achieving their academic goals.
