Being an involved in your child's school and studies is an important factor in keeping your child motivated at school. Kids are more motivated and excited about school when parents are involved.
How can you keep your child/children motivated about school?
* Show interest in your child's school, attend back to school night, open house, meet your child's teacher, go to performances your child is in, tag along on field trips.
* Make sure all homework is done, helping out when necessary. Turn the TV off while homework is being done. Some kids are easily distracted.
* Help your child keep track of homework or report deadlines.
* Have a school day bedtime and stick to it. Kids need at least a full 8 hours of sleep, some kids need more.
* Don't do their homework for them, but do help your child with homework. If your child is becoming frustrated take a short break.
* Go through the school work your child brings home. This can be a real eye opener and will give you more insight not only what your child is learning in school but also how they are doing in school. Praise your child for jobs well done.
* Don't hesitate to contact your child's teacher for any concerns or questions you may have regarding your child.
* Offer incentives and rewards for jobs well done. This could be reading an extra book at bedtime, playing a board game with you or watching a favorite cartoon. Positive reinforcement builds confidence and self-esteem. Beware of criticism.
* Know your child's friends by name.
* Ask how their school day went. Spend at least 15 minutes talking to your child about their school day, make an effort to REALLY listen.
* Get your kids involved in activities outside of school. Sports or clubs like 4-H, Boy or Girl Scouts are wonderful activities for your child.
Young children naturally want to please their parents. Let your child know how important school is and that you always want them to try their best.