When parents worry about their child’s study habits, they usually think in terms of discipline, motivation, or skill. But one of the most overlooked aspects of studentship is much more basic: time and sleep. Even the most dedicated student will falter if the hours simply don’t add up.

The first step is to help your child take an honest look at how much time they actually have. A useful tool is the “time audit.” Sit down together and map out the hours between the time they get home from school or activities and the time they need to go to bed. Account for everything: dinner, chores, personal care, screen time, and socializing. Be generous. Even if the amount of screen time seems excessive to you, include it honestly in the calculation. The point is not to argue—it’s to see clearly what is happening.

Here’s an example. Imagine a child who gets home at 4:00 p.m. Dinner is at 7:00, followed by some clean-up. Add an hour of social or screen time, plus a half hour for showering and getting ready for the next day. This child wakes at 6:00 a.m. for breakfast and school transportation.........

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