Fun Ways to Build Metacognition Over the Summer

Schools all across the country are beginning to prepare for the end of the year. Teachers are preparing final grades, students are turning in their last few assignments, and families are gearing up for summer vacation. Many students can feel the heat of summer approaching and are counting down the minutes until the final bell of the year rings, which means they may be slowly engaging less and less with their coursework. And while students may view this time of year as the “home stretch”, it is an excellent time to encourage them to continue to practice metacognitive strategies throughout the summer months.

“Metacognition is, put simply, thinking about one’s thinking” (Chick, 2013). It focuses on the thinking process and allows students to take ownership in their learning through ongoing self-reflection. However, thinking can be an exhausting process. Rapid thoughts, wandering mind, short attention span, and inner dialogue can all be challenges when it comes to metacognition. Luckily, there are strategies to improve metacognition with practice, such as checklists, goal setting, reflection, and many more.  And while there are many schools implementing these metacognition strategies, there are also fun ways to incorporate them at home!

JOURNAL ENTRIES

Reflection is an excellent way to promote the metacognitive process. Questions like “How was your day overall? What went well? Was there anything you would do differently next time? What challenges did you overcome and how?” can help prompt students to process their thoughts with intention. Journal entries can also help students identify any patterns or trends they see in their thinking process. For younger students, sentence writing with pictures would be a great way to start building writing stamina. Encourage students to add details to their drawing or writing and reflect on what they added!

PROBLEM SOLVING PUZZLES

Different puzzles, such as logic puzzles, crosswords, spot the differences, etc., can help your child develop their thinking skills. Logic puzzles can help children reflect on what they know, what they can infer, and what they do not know yet. Working through new information helps build observation skills. Solving puzzles also promotes the use of checklists to help keep track of information that is processed. Puzzles are a fun and engaging way to help students develop self-monitoring skills without it feeling like another assignment.

GAMES 

Various games can help children with metacognition. Strategy games can provide children with the tools they need to analyze, reflect, and respond. You can even ask prompting questions during these activities to help guide their thinking process. Additionally, modeling your thinking out loud can help students see examples of metacognition. Games like Life, Chess, Risk, Sequence, Connect Four, Battleship, Monopoly, and Sorry can help develop these skills. 

BOOK/TV SHOW CLUB

Book or TV Show Clubs can be a great combination of enjoyment and metacognition practice! Scaffolding information into smaller chunks (i.e. chapters or episodes) can help children process information in greater detail. Provide guiding questions, or allow children to ask their own questions, to help promote metacognition. Focusing on problems, solutions, and new learning can help children discover more about the bigger picture. Study guides, journaling, and notetaking are great tools for students to write their thoughts down and think more deeply about the content. 

While it may seem like the school year is ready to close, there are still lessons to be learned, ideas to be shared, and thoughts to be formed. Modeling thinking processes and offering time for ongoing reflection can help children develop their metacognitive skills. Children may discover a hidden interest by improving the structure of their thinking and discovering ways to expand their knowledge.

Written by Ami Z.

When Motivation is Low: Finding the 'Want' to Persevere

The word motivation is often used to describe one's desire to complete various tasks. Typically, when someone is unmotivated, words such as “lazy” or “apathetic” are used to describe them. However, the National Library of Medicine views motivation as the “process whereby goal‐directed activities are initiated and sustained” (Cook & Artino, 2016). Adding the word “process” to the definition provides more clarity that motivation can be a learned behavior and may look different for each individual. For most people, it’s a lot easier to get motivated to do something you enjoy. So, how can you increase the sustainability of task completion when motivation is low?

Checklists

Most school homework assignments and projects require multiple steps for full completion. It can be overwhelming, especially for younger students, to focus their attention for an extended period without knowing the smaller steps required to complete the task in its entirety. By helping your child create a checklist and outlining the specific steps needed to complete each task, they will see the big picture while also understanding how much attention they will need to complete each individual step. It may be helpful to include a range of tasks (i.e. personal, educational, chore-based) with varying amounts of effort required to complete them. Often, the tasks seem more manageable and less scary when they are broken down into steps.

Must Do/May Do list

Tasks can be broken down into Must Do and May Do lists for your child to complete based on what absolutely must be completed in a particular day and what can wait. Oftentimes providing choices for the May Do’s will support your child’s task initiation. Your child might be motivated with the agreement that they can choose what they will work on next. Must Do/May Do lists can include a variety of topics - from household chores to homework to after school activities - based on your family’s schedule.

Reinforcement

Reinforcement, from oneself or others, can be a powerful tool to increase productivity levels. Rewards can be used in different capacities based on your child’s desire to complete specific tasks or assignments. For example, if they REALLY do not want to complete a task, you may choose a reward system that emphasizes positive reinforcement after each smaller step complete is completed. For example, if they are completing a homework assignment with ten questions, you could give them the option to earn a minute of free time for each question they complete. This will reward them more frequently to encourage them to persevere. They may also choose to be rewarded after a larger task is completed, like an entire assignment or chore, for a larger reward. 

Environmental Factors

Sometimes low motivation is developed based on environmental factors and distractions. You can try to enhance your child’s motivation by having them work in a clean space, using noise canceling headphones, utilizing comfortable seating, or selecting a new workspace. If they seem to be unmotivated, encourage them to change their scenery, limit distractions, or remove unnecessary clutter.

Low motivation can develop for several reasons: long tasks, disinterest in the topic or activity, previous experiences, lack of self-confidence, environmental factors, desire to be doing something else, and many others. Most tasks have a deadline which can cause even more pressure to get the task done. There are many ways to increase motivation to persevere during these difficult internal struggles. If motivation is something your child struggles with, have them try journaling and reflecting on the root cause and suggest new ways of persevering until they find something that works for them!

Written by Ami Z.

Avoiding the Rush: Completing Homework with Intention

“Take your time”, “Check your work”, and “Read the directions” are phrases your child may hear as reminders to complete their work thoughtfully. For most students, these simple reminders may be all they need to complete their work with intention. However, students with executive function challenges may not have strong self-control skills, or response inhibition. This often results in impulses, such as rushing through work “just to get it done”. 

So, how can you help strengthen this skill at home? It is not uncommon for children to need a combination of strategies to improve executive functioning skills. Harvard College explains, “These functions are highly interrelated, and the successful application of executive function skills requires them to operate in coordination with each other” (Harvard College, 2024). Here are some strategies you can try to help your child with self-control during homework time.

Noise Canceling Headphones 

Noise cancelling headphones could benefit your child from getting distracted from loud noises. Sometimes playing music, including instrumentals, may give an additional level of noise protection. Additionally, it may become a habit for your child’s brain to engage meaningfully with their work when they wear headphones. 

Checklists and Rubrics

Checklists and rubrics give your child something to reference when analyzing their work. It can provide specific skills to check for, strategies such as what to do when they get stuck, or specific actions that need to be completed before finishing a task. When you use vague terms such as “Check your work”, it will not benefit your child if they do not understand WHAT to check. Provide explicit instructions, such as “Check your work for capitalization, punctuation, and spelling errors”. Giving them a checklist, or using writing rubrics, will help them understand the expectations and allow them to self-correct anything that does not meet the requirements. This will teach them HOW to check their work thoroughly. 

Time Management Strategies

Timers, goal setting, and time management with planned breaks can help children overcome the unknowns of work time. By choosing a specific amount of time students need to work for, there is a clear designated amount of focus and attention they will need to allocate to complete the task. You could give an amount of time (15 minute work time), or a quantity of work (5 math problems) before incorporating a break in between. Using a visual checklist during this time will be helpful so students can keep track of their progress as they work. Try having a conversation with them about the directions and steps needed to complete each activity prior to getting started- this can help them understand the amount of time and effort they will need to contribute for successful completion!

Structured Think-Time

Structured think time can be a great way to increase intent during work time. This gives students the opportunity to explore more than one topic, rather than choosing the first idea they had. This is especially helpful when engaging with the writing process, critical thinking activities, and multi-step math problems. Graphic organizers may also be beneficial during this time. Modeling and incorporating structured think-time will allow children to slow down and analyze different ideas to pick the best one for the assignment. 

Strategy Games

Strategy games are a fun and engaging way to build children’s self-control. The skill they will develop while playing these games can transfer into their work habits as well. It could be beneficial to include strategy games in their work time breaks! This may help slow their thinking down and can even be used as a warm-up practice. 

Every child will need different supports to strengthen their self-control. A good first step is to connect with your child’s classroom teacher to see what strategies they have tried implementing at school. Don’t be afraid to ask questions such as: What strategies have you tried? Were they successful? What didn’t work about it? How long did you try these strategies? How were they implemented? Responses to these questions can give you a better understanding of what to try at home. Environmental factors (large group setting vs independent homework time) may require different strategies for your child to be successful. Just remember that it is a process - it will take time and patience to see positive results.

Written by Ami Z.

Time Management Tips for Your Child's Busy Life

GUEST BLOG WRITTEN BY EMILY GRAHAM OF MIGHTY MOMS

In today's fast-paced world, children often face a whirlwind of academic and extracurricular activities. As a parent, guiding your kids efficiently through these packed schedules is essential. This efficient management not only paves the way for their success in diverse areas but also fosters a well-rounded, balanced life. This article, courtesy of Peak Academics, offers strategies for you to help your children confidently and skillfully manage their busy lives.

Prioritize Their Interests

You play a pivotal role in helping your children discern the value and importance of their various commitments. Engage in meaningful discussions to understand what truly resonates with them. This process will not only assist them in identifying their passions but also in committing to activities that genuinely enrich their lives. Emphasize the significance of quality over quantity in their choices, fostering a deeper engagement in fewer, more meaningful activities. This approach ensures they are not overextended and can dedicate themselves wholeheartedly to pursuits they are genuinely passionate about.

Embrace Technological Aids in Scheduling

In an era where technology simplifies many aspects of life, utilizing digital tools can be a game-changer in managing your children's schedules. Introduce them to the concept of visually tracking their commitments with an online calendar that the whole family can access. This not only enhances their planning skills but also fosters a sense of responsibility as they oversee their own schedules and to-do lists. By incorporating technology in scheduling with free online resources, you provide them with tools that are relevant and easily accessible in today's digital age, preparing them for future success in personal and professional arenas.

Regular Schedule Reviews

Engage in regular discussions with your children about their schedules, and truly listen to any concerns or anxieties. This practice promotes open communication, allowing you to understand their needs and make necessary adjustments. It also empowers your children, giving them a sense of control and involvement in their own time management. These reviews are an opportunity to reflect on their activities, reassess priorities, and ensure that their schedule aligns with their goals and well-being.

Cultivate Time Management Abilities

Teach your children time management skills that will benefit them for life, guiding them to balance academic work, hobbies, and personal care. Show them how to set achievable goals and break tasks into smaller, manageable steps to enhance productivity and reduce stress. As they learn to handle responsibilities without being overwhelmed, they'll develop the ability to navigate their duties efficiently. Through mastering these skills, your children will lead well-balanced lives, excelling in their pursuits while still enjoying relaxation and leisure.

Establish a Structured Routine

Consistency is key in a child's life. By setting up a structured daily routine, you provide a sense of security and predictability amidst their hectic schedules. Ensure that key daily activities such as homework, meals, and bedtime are consistent. This structure helps in creating a harmonious balance between their various activities, promoting a healthy lifestyle. Such routines also instill discipline and organization skills, which are essential for their personal development and future success.

Value of Unstructured Time

In the midst of structured activities, it is vital to remember the importance of unstructured time. This time allows for relaxation, play, and exploration of their creative instincts. Encourage your children to engage in activities that are not governed by rules or structure, providing them with the freedom to express themselves and unwind. This balance of structured and unstructured time is critical in nurturing their mental and emotional well-being, fostering a sense of joy and spontaneity in their lives.

Collaborative Parenting

Sharing responsibilities with other parents can be a practical approach to managing your children's schedules. This collaborative effort not only lightens your load but also fosters a sense of community and support. Organize carpools or take turns supervising group activities, creating a network of trust and cooperation. Look for school events that will allow you to connect with other moms and dads. This not only benefits you but also provides your children with an extended support system and the opportunity to build relationships outside their immediate family.

Navigating your children's busy schedules can be daunting, but with the right strategies, it becomes a manageable and rewarding task. By fostering prioritization, organization, and a balance between structured and unstructured activities, you equip your children with the skills to thrive in their multifaceted lives. Embrace these practices to guide your children towards a fulfilling, balanced, and successful future.

Peak Academics offers tutoring services in all core learning areas, as well as educational evaluations that can help parents understand their child’s strengths and potential areas of improvement. Have a question about these services? Get in touch today!

Homework Help: 7 Targeted Strategies to Improve Focus and Sustained Attention

Social media notifications, texts from friends, siblings playing, and the TV blaring in the background—does it all feel chaotic yet? In a world filled with constant stimuli and distraction, it's all too easy for the mind to wander during precious homework time. Thankfully, there are many strategies you can implement at home to enhance your secondary students’ focus and attention for a more productive work time.

Set a Routine

Establishing a consistent homework routine is the first step toward more productive study sessions. It doesn't have to be complicated. Students should reflect on their most successful homework days. Did they start with a specific subject? Did they tackle harder or easier tasks first? Did they begin with a snack or listen to calming music? Identifying key elements and incorporating them into a daily routine can significantly improve focus. For those who prefer structure, written schedules with subject and time breakdowns can be helpful. Alternatively, creating a visual "my homework routine" chart on a whiteboard or piece of paper can also be effective.  For more ideas, check out our past blog about crafting the ultimate homework routine here.

Craft a Workspace

A conducive workspace is crucial for concentration and sustained attention. A clean, organized home workspace not only promotes focus but also offers psychological benefits. While some students may prefer a completely isolated workspace in a separate room, others might benefit from a corner close to family areas for occasional check-ins. Personalizing the workspace with touches that reflect individual interests fosters a sense of ownership and makes it a welcoming environment. See our past blog here for more ideas on how to create a home workspace.

Break it Down

Homework assignments for secondary students often involve multiple steps. Using a planning tool, such as a step-by-step worksheet, can help break down each assignment into manageable components, making them less daunting and more achievable. Setting a deadline for each step is also supportive.

Utilize Timers and Breaks

Introducing timers and breaks can aid focus during homework sessions. Phone apps, sand timers, and visual timers are all useful and can help determine the student’s concentration span. After each work interval, encourage a short 5-10 minute break to recharge before resuming work.

Build in Mindfulness and Exercise

Incorporating mindfulness techniques and physical activities can enhance sustained attention. During breaks, try integrating brief mindfulness exercises, like breathing exercises. The 4-7-8 breathing technique—inhaling for four counts, holding for seven counts, and exhaling slowly for eight counts—can promote a sense of calm and focus. Some students need movement breaks to get excess energy out. Students can try physical activities, such as yoga, jumping jacks, burpees, or jump roping.

Try Productivity Apps

Leverage technology to boost productivity. Install tools like Mindful Browsing to gently redirect attention back to tasks if distractions arise. Additionally, consider using apps that block specific websites or apps for designated periods to minimize distractions during homework time.

Introduce Rewards

Sometimes, a little incentive can go a long way in maintaining focus. Implementing reward systems, such as offering a weekly or monthly reward for completing homework tasks on time, or providing smaller daily rewards, like extra TV time or a treat, can motivate students to stay on task.

Focusing during homework time isn’t always easy, especially in today's digitally driven world. However, incorporating these suggested strategies can pave the way for increased sustained attention and productivity at home. By creating a conducive environment, establishing routines, and utilizing technology wisely, students can better navigate distractions and achieve academic success.

Written by Laine J.