• Is it near a caregiver who can help if student has a question?
• Is the area quiet and free of distractions?
• Is table or desk clear of clutter?
• Is the student's cell phone turned off or put away during the study time?
• Has the student had a non-sugar snack and gone to the restroom before beginning?
• Is area well lit?  Research tells us that light is very important not only to see but for our moods!

• Set a goal that can be accomplished in 15 minutes and set a timer.
• Have student begin work on that goal. 
• If assignment is very large, break it up into smaller parts that can done in 15 mins.
• Check on student's progress at minimum when timer sounds.
• Stay near student to redirect back to task if necessary.
• Take a 5 minute "brain break" when attention lapses.
• Be sure to praise the student for successful study periods.

Brain breaks are just stopping the academic work for a few minutes and getting the body moving.  Can be a quick game of Simon Says or simple exercises like jumping jacks followed by stretching. Should not last more than 5 minutes.. just long enough to give the brain a break so it will be ready to start back to work after stopping.