Students need to know where to turn for homework or study help. (State Point Photo) Kids today have to deal with a heavy load of schoolwork and activities, all demanding time and attention.

Teachers often introduce basic study habits to their students, but it is important that parents reinforce these skills and create a favorable study environment at home.

"Parents need to help their children develop homework and study strategies that will provide them with the foundation necessary to successfully navigate the school year," advises Joan Rooney, Vice President of Tutor Management at Tutor.com, the world's largest online tutoring service.

The key is to help children get organized, create study schedules and, most importantly, recognize their weak spots and how to overcome these hurdles.

Here are some tips from Rooney and the experts at Tutor.com on how to help your child achieve success this school year and develop good study habits that will last throughout their academic career:

• Create a schedule. Breaking studying or homework down into manageable chunks can help alleviate stress. Students should start studying early for tests and work at least a week backwards from an exam date. They can even set reminders on their cell phones or computers to help stick to the plan.

• Figure out weak spots and prioritize. Most students do well in some subjects and struggle with others. It's best to schedule the largest chunks of time for subjects with which they are struggling.

• Know where to go for help. Many parents and kids are finding help from online tutoring services, such as Tutor.com, to help students keep up with their peers and fill in weak spots where they need work. Look for a service that offers 24/7 access and the ability to instantly connect with a tutor to get homework or study assistance at the actual moment it's needed.

• Work with a study partner or group. Sometimes peer support can help students motivate. Encourage them to make plans with friends to review class material, compare notes and work through tough stuff together.

• Get to know the test. Many teachers provide study guides, review sheets and class time for review. Make sure your son or daughter knows as much as possible about what topics will be on a test and the format of the test.

• Create study aids and test strategies. Making flash cards, outlining subject notes or coming up with a mnemonic device are a few study tactics that may boost student's recall at test time.

• Eat well and get rest. All-nighters are a bad idea! Even though students need to work extra hard to prepare for tests and projects, it's also important for them to take a breather. Encourage them to grab a snack, do leisure reading or watch their favorite TV show - for a short break.

• Set the right tone. Create as stress-free an environment as you can. Let your child know you're available to help or will help them locate help from fellow students or from an online homework help service. Be sure children know that what is important is that they do their best and you are there to support them.

"Creating the right study strategy can help a child use time wisely, ease stress and achieve the best grades possible," said Rooney.

To learn more about finding timely homework or study help for your children, visit www.Tutor.com.