We know that memory improves with learning new things and that practice can help children to become smarter – but how do you motivate your child to learn? With so many distractions lurking in every corner, it’s a question that a lot of parents ask themselves. We have teamed up with a prep school in Hertfordshire to share a list of ways that you can motivate your child to learn.
Concentration
The ability to concentrate is a skill in itself and with the way that the education system is set up, it’s vital for success at school. While this can be difficult for children to do, there are ways in which you can help your child to improve it. You can implement a healthy routine that ensures that they are eating right and are getting enough sleep. Stress is also another factor. It can cloud concentration and make it difficult for children to do their work. To help, you can teach your child how to use calming methods known as mindfulness techniques.
What are Mindfulness Techniques?
As a brief intro, mindfulness is a way to bring your awareness to the present by focusing on the elements around you. By doing this, children can be less distracted by their thoughts regarding the past and future and concentrate in the moment. Examples of mindfulness techniques that you can practice together are mindful breathing, mindful walking, and mindful eating.
Introduce Incentives
In reality, there are dozens of things that your child would much rather be doing. Having a reward system in place can make the act of doing school work seem more appealing and almost turn it into a game. All you will need to do is decide on a reward rate for each piece of completed work or achievement.
Be Present
A parent that’s invested in their child’s education is more likely to be aware of the things affecting them and be able to offer help. Just knowing that someone cares and appreciates their work can help children to feel more positive about it and want to get it done.
Make an Effort to Learn New Things
Your behaviour sets an example for your child and by making an effort to learn new things, you can help them to also want to do the same. Are there any skills that you’ve always wanted to learn or brush up on? As a parent you may put your own aspirations to aside with mounting work to do but now is the time to strike!