Parent Blog
On the back of his From The Sidelines programme of videos and podcasts for parents, Jon has also created a parent specific blog with articles focussed on how parents can help at home when it comes to supporting their child through school and exams.
How the 'Brain Dump' technique is great for improving your child’s memory
The 'Brain Dump' technique helps children retrieve and recall information effortlessly. By writing down everything they remember about a topic, they enhance retention, boost confidence, and identify gaps in understanding. This simple yet effective tool fosters self-awareness and improves academic performance.
Using ‘Distributed Practice’ help your child manage their study load
Promote distributed and retrieval practice to enhance your child's learning and retention. These methods improve organisation skills, reduce stress, and boost confidence. By regularly revisiting material and actively recalling information, your child will develop effective study habits and achieve long-term academic success.
Enhancing your child’s learning with the 'Look, Cover, Write, Check' technique
The 'Look, Cover, Write, Check' technique enhances learning and retention. This method encourages children to actively engage with their study material, improving understanding and confidence. By creating an ideal study environment and emphasizing consistency, parents can support their child's academic journey and foster lifelong learning habits.
How ‘Habit Stacking’ can transform your child's study habits
Habit stacking helps instil effective study habits by linking new routines to established ones. This method reduces resistance and fosters consistency, improving time management and lifelong learning. By attaching daily reading to a pre-existing habit, parents can create a conducive environment for academic success and personal growth.
The importance of distinguishing activity from productivity when your child is studying
Distinguish between activity and productivity to ensure effective home study. Set clear goals, minimise distractions, and promote active learning. Monitor progress, encourage curiosity, and provide positive reinforcement. This approach helps your child develop effective study habits and thrive academically while studying at home.
Using ‘Desirable Difficulties’ to help your child thrive when studying at home
Ensuring children work at a desirably difficult level fosters resilience, cognitive abilities, and a growth mindset. It prevents boredom, promotes independent learning, and develops time management skills. Striking the right balance of difficulty and setting time limits supports personal growth and academic success.
How to create a study planner with your child
Creating a study planner promotes organisation, full coverage of all subjects, and reduces last-minute stress. It empowers children and parents, fosters essential organisational skills, and ensures a balanced study routine. Collaboratively designing a study planner enhances academic success and overall wellbeing.
Using motivation to support your child through exam season
Keep your child motivated during exams by creating a supportive environment, setting realistic goals, and offering small rewards. Encourage regular breaks, healthy habits, and a dedicated study space. Share inspiring stories and be a study buddy to boost their confidence and help them succeed.
What should your child do the night before an exam?
Encourage your child to prepare well in advance for exams, finish studying early, and relax before bedtime. Adequate rest improves memory recall and cognitive function. Avoid last-minute cramming and ensure a consistent sleep routine to boost exam performance. Support and healthy study habits are key to success.
The importance of breakfast in boosting learning and concentration for your child
A nutritious breakfast and consistent meal times boost children's learning and concentration. Providing essential nutrients and supporting the gut-brain connection, breakfast enhances cognitive function and memory retention. Prioritise regular meal schedules to empower your child's academic success and overall well-being.
How good sleep habits are the key to success for your child
Good sleep habits are vital for academic success. Encourage your child to establish a consistent sleep routine and avoid last-minute changes. Adequate rest enhances memory, focus, and reduces stress. By promoting a relaxing bedtime routine, you set your child up for success with a refreshed mind and sharper memory.
Embracing exam stress: Why some signs of stress are beneficial for your child
Some stress during exams can boost performance and readiness. Increased blood flow, improved breathing, heightened awareness, sweating, and enhanced motivation help children perform at their best. Understanding and harnessing these stress responses can empower children to excel academically and build resilience.
Keeping your child hydrated during learning and exams
Proper hydration boosts children's focus, memory retention, and reduces stress during study periods. Encourage your child to drink enough water to enhance their cognitive function and academic success. Discover practical tips to promote hydration and establish healthy habits that support their learning and overall well-being.
The perils of energy drinks before exams
Energy drinks can hinder academic performance with side effects like jitteriness, sleep disruption, and impaired concentration. Encourage healthier alternatives such as balanced nutrition, hydration, restful sleep, and mindful study techniques to support your child's exam preparation. Promote these positive practices to help your child achieve academic success and maintain long-term wellbeing.
How exercise helps your child during exam season
Exercise is crucial during exam preparation, enhancing cognitive abilities, reducing stress, and improving concentration. Physical activity boosts brain function, memory retention, and sleep quality. Encourage your child to balance study time with enjoyable exercises to excel academically and maintain a positive, healthy approach to learning.
What Cricket Still Means to Me
Twenty-five years after I last played, I returned to cricket — older, stiffer, but more aware of what the game truly means. This season, I’ve found myself reflecting on community, connection, family, and why cricket still has the power to teach us lessons long after we’ve left the crease.