We continue again, this month, with discussing strategies to help motivate your child to learn. I am again grateful to Becton Loveless for an excellent article published in Education Corner, from which the advice here is adapted. For this month we will be looking at a further three tips to boost motivation and to help your child with their learning.

Make every day a learning day.  Turning every day into a learning day may sound like a bit much, but it really isn't, if you go about it the right way. Whenever possible, encourage your child to explore the world around them, ask questions and make connections. Help them categorise, classify, and think critically of what he sees and experiences. Turning every day into a learning day will help your child develop the internal motivation to learn in the classroom, at home or wherever they may be.

Focus on what they’re learning, not their performance:   Instead of asking your child how they did on their maths test as soon as they get home from school, have them teach you what they learned in maths today. Focus on what your child is learning, as opposed to how they are performing. While performance is important, focusing on their learning experience will (1) communicate to your child that actual learning is more important than assessment grades, (2) results are not the most important thing, (3) you're more concerned about them than you are about their performance and (4) by focusing on their learning experience that day you'll provide them the opportunity to put into their own words the lesson and solidify what they have learned.       

 Help your child stay organised:   Helping your child organise their papers, books and assignments will go a long way to helping them feel motivated to learn. Disorganisation is typical among young school age children, but it can also lead to a feeling of being overwhelmed. Overwhelmed children spend more time and effort being frustrated and worried than they do learning. Be patient, but consistent, in helping your child organise their school supplies and assignments. This will help them feel in control, less overwhelmed and more motivated to learn. I hope you have found the tips over the last couple of months interesting. Most of all I hope you will try them out and help motivate your child to be a good learner.

As we come to the end of another term it is always good to reflect on what has been achieved by all of our pupils. Even the smallest move forward can be a great event as our children progress on their educational journey. That “Lightbulb” moment can come at any time, and it is always exciting to see the look on a child’s face when they suddenly “Get it”. I wish you all a happy and safe Christmas season and look forward to seeing all the children back in January 2024! (Where does the time go?)

Photos: Black Heron & Impala (Both from Vwaza)