Wednesday, November 28, 2012

Why Advance Beyond Your Current Grade Level?


Why Advance Beyond Your Current Grade Level? 

Parents come to Kumon because they want to help and support their child’s academic growth. Educators refer students to Kumon to build their self-confidence while strengthening their academic performance. At Kumon we stress that tutoring is meant to facilitate test preparation while Kumon tailors lesson plans to prepare student’s academic growth well after the testing has been completed.

The value of independent learning comes when children are able to learn on their own using creative thinking and analytical skills. Most often parents ask us at Kumon what happens after their child reaches proficiency at their current grade level?

  There are several benefits to continue with Kumon well beyond the initial goal.

1)    Academic. In the United States, students that continue to study beyond their current grade level have a higher chance at qualifying for advance programs. This can include the option to participate in AP classes during high school. AP classes have added benefits in that students can receive college credit for the class – saving time and money once they are in college.
2) Strong skill sets. At Kumon we don't just pride ourselves on improving their educational learning methods, but also in preparing students with the necessary skills for a successful life after Kumon.
·       Confidence
·       Concentration
·       Perseverance
·       Self-Motivation
·       Discipline
·       Stress Management
·       Organizational Skills
·       Independent Study Habits
·       Positive Learning Attitude

Challenge your child to continue learning and help them surpass what they thought they were capable of achieving.

What learning skill do you use outside of school? Tell us on www.facebook.com/Kumonofwestworcester

Tuesday, November 6, 2012

3 Ways to Prevent Falling Grades This Holiday Season


3 Ways to Prevent Falling Grades This Holiday Season 

  The holiday season is one of the busiest, and most stressful, times of the year. Between final exams, professional careers, planning for the holidays and the change of weather, it is no surprise that we feel stressed heading into winter. Although small amounts of stress push us to deliver on deadlines and deliver amazing presentations, too much stress can result in health issues and poor academic performance.

Researchers have found a connection between high stress levels and reduced academic performance. A study conducted by the University of Minnesota, surveyed approximately 10,000 students attending fourteen different two year and four year colleges. Experts discovered that stress management plays an important role in academic performance. Students who had the knowledge and ability to manage stress performed higher than those that did not do so.

The best ways to manage stress during the holiday season:

1)    Be realistic. The holidays don't have to be perfect. Focus on the highest priorities. For example, passing the final exam or finding the best holiday desert?
2)    Plan ahead. Knowing in advance that family may be arriving prior to school break or the amount of work needed to prepare the home for the holidays is vital to managing stress. Have a calendar that outlines important dates and deadlines. This will help you plan for the science project before the family arrives. Kumon works to manage these academic deadlines to help keep students on track.

3) Take a breather. This busy time can take a toll on you physically and mentally. Spending fifteen minutes alone without distractions will help refresh your mind.


What helps you maintain academic focus during the holiday season? Tell us at www.facebook.com/Kumonofwestworcester