A Balance of Styles

Stress is the enemy of effective studying. Hitting the books is difficult enough without piling on extra stuff like anxiety. If you have been following this blog, you will have noted that brains and stress don’t play well together.

Music is not only a form of entertainment; it’s a powerful tool that can enhance your child’s study experience. A search of online app stores reveals dozens of relaxation apps. Some are of questionable value, especially when considering music's importance. Ocean waves and falling rain sound effects are fine, but music, as we’ve seen, is the only art form that activates our entire brain.

So, let’s see what a study session might look like for your child. First, let’s build a playlist. Do this together so there is a balance of styles and tastes. Mix familiar and unfamiliar.

How long should the playlist last? That will depend on the age of your child. We’re talking teenagers who are most likely the ones who will be hitting the books hard.

Recent research has identified that thirty-minute chunks of study, followed by 5-10 minutes of time off, is an effective method.

Music choice? I am leaning classical here, but the important thing is to keep things focused and energised. Bach, Pachelbel, and Mozart are your go-to composers if you want to boost concentration. Remember, we are not talking lengthy sessions here–30 minutes of focus, followed by 5-10 minutes of downtime.

The music of the focused study session is classical; the downtime music is upbeat to re-energise.