Keeping Your Child Motivated to Learn

By Angela Fernandez, WS/FCS School Psychologist Intern 

The announcement has been made and students will not be returning to traditional learning until some time next school year. Until then, e-learning continues! With the extended period of e-learning, you might be wondering how you will be able to keep your child motivated and engaged in learning. Here are some suggestions that are useful in keeping things interesting for your child.

1. Encourage learning in nontraditional ways.

Sometimes the best learning happens when we don’t even realize we are learning! This holds true for our kids, too. Instead of sitting at a desk, try learning outside. Whether you are focusing on traditional learning material, or you are learning about nature, switching up the environment is a great way to keep things interesting!

2. Let your child control the direction of their learning when possible.

If a child feels like they are being forced to do something, you may be met with resistance, it is natural! Let your child provide input on things that they do/do not find interesting. You will learn about your child’s preferences while also letting them feel heard. Provide choices whenever possible. When children have choices, they feel in control. When they feel like they are in control and have options to choose from, they will be more likely to remain engaged and be motivated to complete the task ahead. Giving your child a sense of control does not mean that you will be losing your own power or control. As the child’s parent/educator, you will be setting guidelines and creating predetermined choices for your child to choose from.

3. Listen to your child’s concerns/opinions.

We are all learning to adjust during these times. This uncertainty is not only stressful for adults, but children, too! Their “normal world” has been turned upside down. Things are changing every day! Allow your child to discuss concerns and opinions openly with you, free of judgement. Even if you disagree, listen to what your child is telling you. These conversations can provide you with insight on your child’s feelings and will create an environment that feels like a safe zone to them. Your child is trying to navigate and adjust to this new learning environment. The uncertainty may cause feelings of hopelessness which can impact your child’s motivation. Listen carefully for these feelings and provide reassurance. Point out the good in every day and keep reminding them of things to look forward to in the future. If you are concerned about your child’s emotional well-being, please contact your school psychologist, school counselor, or school social worker for assistance in locating services.

4. Focus on your child’s interests.

Your child will be more engaged in learning if what they are learning about is relevant to them. Be creative and find ways to incorporate the things that your child feels drawn to. Maybe your child finds math boring but loves science. Can you think of ways to disguise your math lesson as a science lesson? Maybe your child likes art but does not enjoy reading. Try having your child draw a picture depicting what happens in the story! Perhaps your child does not enjoy learning how to count money but loves getting ice cream. Well, in order to get ice cream, you need money. You see where I am going with this!

5. Be excited about learning and exploring new information.

If you are enthusiastic about what your child is learning, they will feel that energy. Your child will be more likely to be excited if they can tell that you are too. When you show enthusiasm, doing schoolwork/lessons will feel less like work and more like fun! Try incorporating game-based learning a couple of times per week. Get creative and make up a challenge or game around what your child is learning. It is a great way to have fun and practice skills at the same time!

6. Teach your child how to be organized.

I do not know about you but if I feel disorganized, I feel extremely overwhelmed! Sometimes kids feel the same way. Feeling overwhelmed can have a direct impact on someone’s motivation and productivity. Help your child stay organized to avoid feelings of being overwhelmed. Try designating “time slots” for learning. If a child is unsure how long they will be asked to complete work or learn, they may feel anxious or overwhelmed. Predictability is your (and your child’s) friend here! Checklists, to-do lists, and visual schedules are great, simple ways to stay organized, on track, have a sense of predictability, and promote feelings of accomplishment.

7.       Praise your child for his/her accomplishments.

When your child feels accomplished, self-esteem will increase, and they will be more likely to attempt and persist on difficult tasks in the future. You may also wish to try incorporating a reward system. It is a great way to keep your child motivated. First, find out what motivates your child. Is it a sweet treat? Extra TV time? Rewards do not always have to be tangible. For some kids, especially younger ones, social praise and positive attention is enough to make them feel great! When you have determined what motivates your child, work towards that reward together. You are a team and will win together (fun)! If your child appears to be losing interest, remind them what they are working for. It is helpful to switch the reward up, that way it continues to be exciting and motivating.

8. Lastly, try to keep your expectations reasonable.

We are all currently experiencing a world crisis. For many of us, this is the first time we have felt this level of uncertainty. Keep your expectations reasonable for not only your child, but for yourself too! Our brains are focused on survival right now and may not always be 100% available to concentrate. That is okay. Be forgiving of yourself and of your child. We are all in this together!

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If you would like more information, it can be found at: https://www.educationcorner.com/motivating-your-child-to-learn.html