Intrinsic motivation is motivation to complete a task for the enjoyment of completing the task. Since this type of learning is completely self-motivated, children learn more this way. You can help build intrinsic motivation by allowing children to make choices and not placing restrictions on play time, while still maintaining clear rules with the child. Kids need to be kids and play with materials in the way they deem fit to learn and encourage natural curiosity.
External (or extrinsic) motivation is motivation that is supplied by an outside force. This motivation results in completing tasks to please someone else or avoid punishment. External motivation is not as effective as intrinsic; however, it is necessary in the classroom setting. Teachers may set goals with the students that have clear-cut rewards, such as awards or extra recess time. At home, parents may help their children by providing incentives for hard work and achievements. Setting incentives should be done sparingly or the rewards become too easy and are no longer motivating factors.
A key factor in motivation is persistence. Persistence is the ability to work on a task until completion. The more the child is able to work on and successfully complete tasks, the more intrinsically motivated he becomes. Parents can build persistence by letting children complete the tasks they are working on while playing. Parents need to let children finish tasks such as puzzles on their own, without interruption. Teachers can build persistence through being organized, businesslike and positive in all student-teacher interactions.
Setting goals can be a source of motivation for children. Parents and teachers need to be aware of the child's ability and select challenges that are not too hard or too easy for the child to attain. Many children will select the hardest challenge wanting to appease the adult without realizing the work and details involved in reaching these goals. Selecting goals that are too hard invites failure, and goals that are too easy provide no challenge. If the child can select a challenge, whether it be obtaining a certain grade on a test or mastery level of a math subject, reaching it will encourage further intrinsic motivation. The child will look forward to the next challenge.
A child needs to hear positive reinforcements when learning. Each interaction with the child must be placed in a positive light. Positive reinforcements can be as simple as a pat on the back for a job well done or rewards for completing a task. Even when the child is in need of correction, the way he is thinking about a topic needs to be placed in a positive light. Staying positive increase self-esteem and ultimately motivation.
While telling children they have done a good job is positive and motivating, it can be overused and lose effectiveness. Asking a child how he thinks he did will give a glimpse into how a child is feeling about himself and his work. This lets you address negative thoughts and give feedback to the child that will help build self-esteem and positive anticipation of the next challenge.