As we begin the school year, I would like to share some strategies I learned to help our students develop positive academic motivation and bring out their natural love for learning and discovery. What is positive academic motivation? It is when our students believe that they can be successful if they try hard, work in order to master the material, and are motivated in improve their performance rather than just to better than other children.
To help your child move towards this type of motivation, let your child know that you think school is important. Praise them and provide rewards for both trying hard and for being successful in a variety of activities and interests, not just schoolwork. All children need to know when they are doing well.
To help your child move towards this type of motivation, let your child know that you think school is important. Praise them and provide rewards for both trying hard and for being successful in a variety of activities and interests, not just schoolwork. All children need to know when they are doing well.
Model the importance of learning by letting your child see you read books, newspapers, and magazines and talk about what you read. Plan family activities that encourage learning, such as visits to the library, museums, and parks.
Teach your child habits that encourage learning, such as having a routine for schoolwork. Your child should know when he or she is expected to work on schoolwork each day. Set up a quiet place for your child to study where he or she has all the supplies needed. Make sure that your child finishes homework and studying before doing things that could distract them such as watching TV or playing video games. Be available to supervise and help your child with homework and studying. If needed, increase the amount of time your child studies by a small amount each day until your child is spending the amount of time needed to learn well.
Teach your child habits that encourage learning, such as having a routine for schoolwork. Your child should know when he or she is expected to work on schoolwork each day. Set up a quiet place for your child to study where he or she has all the supplies needed. Make sure that your child finishes homework and studying before doing things that could distract them such as watching TV or playing video games. Be available to supervise and help your child with homework and studying. If needed, increase the amount of time your child studies by a small amount each day until your child is spending the amount of time needed to learn well.
Work with your child’s teacher to enhance academic motivation by having a mutually respectful relationship with their teacher. Do not handle disagreement with the teacher in front of your child. Maintain regular communication with the teacher and address questions and concerns before report cards come out. Other school personnel, such as myself, are available to consult with you and your child’s teacher if needed.
Reference: Academic Motivation for Students by Michael B. Brown, National Association of School Psychologists
Reference: Academic Motivation for Students by Michael B. Brown, National Association of School Psychologists