10 teaching tips that will help your child study better, according to child cognitive development doctor

Teaching tips: Visual memory can be stimulated with charts, maps, flashcards and diagrams which make lessons more memorable to remember during exams (Image: Pexels)

Every parent wants their child to learn better, stay focused and easily remember lessons. But many of them struggle, not because they’re not intelligent but because they don’t know the right study habits. Memory and learning aren’t just about how many hours a kid has spent beside books — they’re influenced by sleep, nutrition, attention, emotional balance and the way we teach. The school environment can lay a foundation, but most of the memory-building habits are developed at home.

From school, homework and extracurriculars to screen exposure, children are more overloaded with information than at any time in history. Small and simple learning habits can increase retention, recall, and academic performance without the stress.

Dr Kavya Raman, a Child Cognitive Development Specialist with over 10 years of experience, says that children process best when information is fractured and reviewed across multiple sensory systems — reading (or visual aids), writing and verbal recall. When learning is “pleasurable and well-structured,” and when there are positive emotions associated with it, memory becomes more powerful, she emphasises.

Best teaching tips for children

Study in short intervals

The brain becomes burdened with hours of study. Brief 25–30 minute workouts with short rest intervals enhance attention and memory, as well as tone down mental fatigue.

Also read | Teaching Your Children About Money: Building financial literacy from younger years

Read actively, not passively

Just reading something again and again will not ensure remembering. Students should be able to retell concepts in their own words, teach someone else, or answer prompting questions from memory.

Take advantage of visual learning for better memory

Visual memory can be stimulated with charts, maps, flashcards and diagrams which make lessons more memorable to remember during exams.

Ensure proper sleep every night

Memory formation happens during sleep. Kids who sleep 8-10 hours a night do better at remembering information and solving problems.

Develop a fixed study routine

Studying at the same time each day trains your brain to engage learning mode automatically, which lowers resistance and procrastination.

Also read | Raising money-smart kids: How to teach financial lessons at every age

Eat 'mind boosting' diet

Foods that are high in the omega-3 fat DHA, such as walnuts and certain types fish (salmon, trout), fruits (especially berries) and eggs support attention, memory and energy levels.

Reduce multitasking and digital distractions

The brain doesn’t store information cleanly when it is toggling between screen and book. Maintaining distance from phones and gadgets while studying would enhance concentration and retention.

Teach note-making instead of copying

By generating summaries, bullet notes or diagrams in their own approach, the brain structures information more deeply — and longer holds on to that knowledge.

Encourage regular physical activity

Exercise increases blood flow to the brain, helps attention and lessens exam stress. Even if it's only 30 minutes a day, you will see the difference. A friendly, supportive atmosphere helps increase confidence and reduce the fear of learning. Seeing small gains inspires children to keep good study habits.

FAQs on Teaching Tips for Children

1. How long should study sessions be for effective learning?

Study sessions should be 25-30 minutes long with short breaks to enhance attention and memory while reducing mental fatigue.

2. What is the benefit of active reading?

Active reading, which includes summarizing, teaching others, or answering questions, ensures better retention than passive reading.

3. How do visual aids help in learning?

Using charts, maps, flashcards, and diagrams stimulates visual memory, making lessons easier to remember during exams.

4. Why is proper sleep important for children?

Adequate sleep (8-10 hours) is crucial for memory formation and problem-solving, leading to better academic performance.

5. What dietary habits support learning and memory?

A diet rich in omega-3s (from walnuts, fish, berries, and eggs) boosts attention, memory, and energy levels for better learning outcomes.

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.