Most parents struggle with getting their kids to study for their lessons in school. Kids are easily distracted, and it can be difficult to motivate them to sit down and read a book. Considering that we are living in a time that has gadgets and electronics, kids would rather stare at their tablets than open a book. Are you one of those parents who are having trouble motivating your kids to study? If so, read on for some tips and advice on how to make study time more effective and fun.
Don't frustrate and annoy them
One thing that kids don't like about their parents forcing them to study is the annoyance it brings. The key to motivating them to opening their books is to not annoy or frustrate them. This will cause a type of stress that will affect their motivation to study. A parent's relationship with their child goes vice versa-- if parents get annoyed because of their children, their children can also feel annoyed by their parents as well. If you continue doing this, your children will continually feel upset towards you and it will lead to something worse such as them not listening to you and possibly rebelling.
Also, as parents, although we have most of the knowledge that they might need, all of it will be useless if your children are not open to listen. It takes time, patience, and a lot of understanding when it comes to motivating your children to study during study time. Be subtle towards them. Giving them encouraging statements can also help motivate them in everything that they do.
Let them control their decisions but help them weigh options
One common mistake that parents do is control their kid's decisions. Some parents hover over their children and make all the decisions without considering what their child has to say about it. As early as school age, you need to give your child a sense of control. You can help motivate them to envision their goals, but you should also help them weigh the outcomes of their own choices. Empower your children and help them develop a sense of autonomy and responsibility.
Having a clear understanding of your's and your child's activities can also help your child develop a sense of responsibilty. You can give them tasks or responsibilities such as keeping their room clean. This way, they can feel proud when they complete the tasks. Always remember that there is a huge difference between getting into your children's life and creating boundaries around your involvement.
Have an effective study system
Parents can be very busy, especially if they are working parents, and kids, especially younger ones, still need help from their parents as much as possible. Having an established and effective routine and structure of tasks can help strengthen your child's bond when it comes to responsibilities at home. Establishing a homework schedule and time can be important. There will be less conflict when you have a proper schedule of activities, which will be more convenient for both the child and the parent.
Let your children know that mistakes are OK
One common mistake that parents do that can reduce a child's motivation is getting angry when the child makes mistakes. As adults, we all know how mistakes can mold us into better versions of ourselves. Mistakes are okay and they can be learning guides and lessons for the future. However, in this day in age, failures are deeply neglected and people rely more on instant success. Parents should know that this mindset is wrong and if they continue to adapt to this mindset, it could lead to a more serious effect on their children that may have a negative impact on their mental health. Areas of improvement should be highlighted by parents, and telling them that there is still time to do better in the future really helps.
Show them that you care
Motivation comes from showing that you want them to succeed in life. Parents should be children's number one support system. Show them that you care and you value all their efforts. Being involved in their school activities and their lives is one way for them to see that you are rooting for them, thus, they will do better. Always listen to what they are saying and guide them in their life decisions.
As we are well aware, children are all different. In my personal case, my oldest has no problem studying and typically makes good grades. However, my second child would rather fight for hours, than look at any form of educational material. I have had to adapt my parenting in order to get through to each child individually. I can not pretend to tell you how to motivate your children, but the tips and advice I listed in this article are a good guideline that you as a parent will have to decide how to incorporate with your own children.
