Persuading kids and teens to study can take an excessive amount of energy. There always seems to be something that keeps them from ‘hitting the books’: television, video games, lack of motivation, you name it. How can you get kids in the mood to study when they just don’t seem to feel like it?

Environment may be the key. Even a teen with the best intentions can get distracted by popular diversions like televisions, internet, family traffic, even lighting in a room. The rejection of the environment for studying purposes occurs when the child subconsciously picks up clues that there are better activities to do. Surrounded by distractions, it is no small wonder that kids and teens are not enthusiastic about studying when they can conquer the universe in their video game or immerse themselves in the reality of television characters.

Physical environment has a tremendous influence on a teenager’s motivation. A desk cluttered with books, papers, and personal effects can affect his or her sense of organization and make it much harder to concentrate. A blaring television or the drone of background conversation can also make it difficult to focus.

How can you create a successful learning environment? The initial step is getting rid of distractions. Radios and televisions should be turned off or absent and seating should be comfortable. Make sure there is plenty of light as well, as a bright room will keep a student alert and focused. A quiet room will help the student absorb as much information as possible.

If a teen’s bedroom is the best option for a study room, ensure the space used is organized and clear of any clutter. Studies have shown that kids can absorb and retain more information in an orderly environment than they can in a disorganized environment. Imagine how much easier it would be to study when papers, books, pens, and notes are readily accessible?

SuperCamp, a leading academic summer camp that teaches learning skills to kids and teens, also teaches that personalizing the space with positive affirmations will help remind kids that they are capable of anything they set their mind to. Sign-making is an activity you can do with your kids that will both energize them and renew their motivation. Include encouraging messages like, “Everything I do deserves my best effort”, “I can learn this”, and “I believe in myself” to give them an extra boost in confidence.

It is important to make this a joint effort so that your teen knows you are just as invested in their academic career as he or she is. Help them make their affirmation signs with bright colors (because our brains love color!) and make preparing the study room a daily ritual. Music can also help get your child in the mood to study. Baroque music will help their brain focus and access their most resourceful learning state. This type of music optimizes the functions of the brain that store and retrieve information.

Motivation doesn’t have to be an issue when a student has everything they need to improve their study habits. Camps like SuperCamp provide students with handy tips to help them restore the drive for learning. Positive learning environments can make a significant difference in every student’s life!