Studying amidst noise: A how-to

Sometimes, inevitable things happen during the most random moments. Wanted to use the washroom urgently? All the cubicles are occupied. Wanted to run downstairs for a quick errand? It suddenly starts pouring. Wanted to study in peace? Random noises distract you from all directions. It can all be so frustrating!

All parents strive to provide their children with the ideal study environment, but sometimes noise can be an inevitable hurdle during their study sessions. Whether it's studying in a bustling home or noisier outdoor spaces such as in cafes or your child’s schools, such distractions can disrupt their focus. In this article, we will explore a few ways to help your child maintain unwavering focus and excel in their studies, even in the midst of noise.

1. Embrace the power of noise-cancellation

With AirPods Pro and other headphones rising in popularity in the last few years, noise-cancelling headphones are no longer a novelty to us nowadays. These magical headphones can be a game-changer for your child's study routine, as they actively reduce or eliminate external sounds, creating a serene study sanctuary for them!

Consider investing in a pair of handy noise-cancelling headphones for your child, or accompany them to choose a comfortable pair that suits their needs. With these headphones, your child can create a focused and distraction-free zone, no matter how noisy their environment may be.

2. Carve out a dedicated study nook

We have talked about this point in many of our articles and we are reiterating it once again - establishing a dedicated study space is vital for concentration, especially in noisy surroundings! Work with your child to create a designated area in your home where they can study without interruptions.

This space should be free from distractions such as televisions or conversations. Encourage them to personalise the area with inspirational quotes, calming colours, and organised study materials. A serene and inviting study nook will put your child in their study mode and help them stay motivated and focused, even in the midst of a bustling household.

3. Utilise productive time slots

Strategically planning study sessions during quieter periods of the day can significantly enhance your child's focus. Identify the times when noise levels are typically lower in your household, such as early mornings or late evenings. These moments are the best pockets of time for your child to concentrate without disturbances. Encourage them to utilise these favourable time slots to optimise their study sessions.

4. Harness the power of music

While noise can be distracting, the right kind of background music can help your child maintain focus and boost productivity. Experiment with instrumental music, soothing melodies, or anything else in between that enhance concentration. There’s no right or wrong answer when it comes to what music your child should listen to in order to focus on their study sessions! Each child is unique, which means that everyone has their own preferences.

Encourage them to create study playlists tailored to their preferences. Little that we know that music can now serve as a powerful tool in transforming a noisy environment into a productive study haven. We recently curated two study playlists for students, one lyrical and one instrumental to suit most - check out ‘Ebb & Flow’ and ‘Belt It Out’ here!

5. Break it down

Studying for extended periods can be mentally exhausting, particularly in noisy environments. Encourage your child to break their study sessions into manageable chunks, interspersed with short breaks.

Set specific goals for each study segment to keep them motivated and focused. During breaks, suggest activities that help them relax and recharge, such as going for a walk or practising a hobby that they like. By breaking down their study time, your child can maintain focus and productivity, even in the midst of noisy distractions.

In a nutshell

While noisy environments can pose challenges to studying, they are not insurmountable obstacles. Try the above tips and help your child rise above these distractions and cultivate unwavering focus!