Tips and Tricks to Motivate Your Child to Learn

posted by Karen Quinn, The Testing Mom - January 3rd, 2018

Today we are welcoming guest author, Imelba, who is an NYC parent sharing what works for her in motivating her children.

I am a mother of two lovely children, Victoria is 3 years old, and Noah is 5 years old.  It is not easy keeping them engaged when it comes to learning and homework.  What has worked for me is to appeal to my children and their distinct styles of learning.

Appeal to Your Child’s Learning Style

Noah loves music, as well as singing. We sing his spelling words, which helps him to learn new words. He can also practice his reading by  reciting the lyrics of his favorite songs!   He is now identifying his spelling words through his lyrics. He also likes puzzles and word searches. I have him do about 2-3 puzzles a week, as I have him start with an easy one to build confidence. Overtime, he begins to complete puzzles that pose an even greater challenge.  I also create a word search puzzle using his weekly spelling words.

Practice Makes Improvement

Victoria loves to do homework like her older brother, so I decided to get her some workbooks to get practice. while her brother does his homework.  I also have Noah help her with the activities that she is working on. He reads to her, helps her with her workbooks and works with her on puzzles.  This benefits Noah’s own studies, as it reinforces what he has learned. This also gives me a break! Our mantra is “practice makes improvement.”

Word of the Day

As a family tradition we choose  a word of the day. The words range from very simple to complex , such as  “observation” or  “transitional.”  We will have them use the word in a sentence, repeat it throughout the day and post it up on the wall for all to see.

Affirmations

Lastly, I have my kids recite affirmations daily. I found this to be a big confidence booster. For example, I have them recite “I am a leader.” I reaffirm it every day by telling them that they are a leader.  It makes a difference in their confidence, as well as in the way they carry themselves.

What tips and tricks work for your family?