Study tips
Studying can be tough when your parents are separating. It could be hard to concentrate or to find a quiet place to focus on schoolwork.
- Talk to your classmates or teacher to make sure you understand your assignments/homework.
- Use soft lighting when you study. It will help you feel calm and settled.
- Get enough sleep. About nine hours a night will improve your memory and help you feel happy.
- Eat breakfast. Studies show it improves memory and concentration. Toast and baked beans are good.
- Study at the same time and the same place each day.
- Give yourself a break. Study for about 50 minutes and then give yourself a 15-minute break before getting back to the books.
- Drink water regularly. It will hydrate your brain and help you concentrate.
- Exercise. Research has found this helps students perform better.
- Talk to your parents about what you need to help you study - such as a quiet place.4
If you have to change schools because your parents are separating, have a look at the What now? section for ideas to help you cope.
4 Dr Michael Carr-Gregg, Adolescent psychologist, www.michaelcarr-gregg.com.au.
