One of the cornerstone elements of out-of-school time (OST) is the provision of organized study periods but, after a long time sitting in the classroom or with the allure of a bright sunny day, it can be a challenge to leverage that time impactfully. As leaders in this space, AYS program staff have developed some innovative ways to supercharge structured study time while keeping things fun. Here are 10 tips from some of our best, seasoned Afterschool youth-serving pros.
Spice Up Time Management
Turn time management into a game by challenging students to beat the clock while completing tasks. Incorporate fun timers or apps to add an element of excitement to scheduling study sessions.
Groove to a Routine
Inject energy into routines with themed study sessions. Whether it’s “Math Mondays” or “Science Saturdays,” themed study days add flair and consistency to the learning process, making it more enjoyable for students.
Dive Into Distraction-free Zones
Create designated study areas free from distractions. Transform these spaces into cozy, inviting nooks equipped with comfortable seating, inspiring décor, and perhaps a touch of ambient music to enhance focus.
Cultivate Collaboration
Foster a culture of collaboration by organizing group study sessions. Encourage students to share knowledge, brainstorm ideas, and tackle challenges together, promoting peer-to-peer learning and teamwork.
Gamify Learning
Infuse learning with elements of gamification to make it more engaging. Introduce educational games, quizzes, or interactive challenges that reward progress and achievement, turning study time into a thrilling adventure.
Empower with Choices
Offer students a menu of study options to cater to diverse learning styles and preferences. Whether it’s solo study, partner work, or small group discussions, empowering students with choice increases ownership and motivation.
Blend Academics with Adventure
Take learning beyond the classroom with experiential study outings. Explore local museums, nature trails, or historical sites to provide hands-on learning experiences that enrich academic concepts with real-world relevance.
Spark Creativity
Incorporate creative activities into study sessions to stimulate imagination and innovation. From artistic expression to DIY projects, fostering creativity not only enhances learning but also makes study time more enjoyable.
Celebrate Milestones
Recognize and celebrate students’ achievements to fuel motivation and perseverance. Host mini celebrations, award certificates, or create a “wall of fame” to showcase student progress and accomplishments.
Infuse Fun into Feedback
Make feedback sessions fun and constructive by incorporating elements of positivity and encouragement. Use colorful stickers, silly awards, or humorous anecdotes to provide feedback that inspires growth and resilience.
Which one is your favorite? Have you tried something that we didn’t mention? Let us know in the comments and remember that routine is not always a bad thing – especially during summer months when learning loss is at its most detrimental. Want to make sure your child experiences a few months away from school that are both a catalyst for fun and a chance to learn and grow? Registration is now open for Summer Days – click here to learn more!