So, we’re a few weeks into school, the newness has worn off and now we are faced with reality—how do we keep the kids motivated to do their homework?!
Lack of motivation is not the same as lazy!
First let’s talk about Motivation, or lack thereof. Lack of motivation does not mean a child is lazy, a common reason that kids lack motivation is because they are having problems with academic skills. It is possible they have a learning difference such as executive functions or dyslexia or maybe they are challenged with anxiety or ADHD. Maybe the work isn’t challenging enough or their learning style isn’t being addressed. It could simply be low confidence. Point being, there is usually a reason for lack of motivation and pinpointing it is going to make a world of difference.
Another thing to keep in mind about motivation is that kids like having a degree of agency and autonomy. They want to work on projects that feel personal-at least in the choices of how it gets done. The more pro-active a child can feel in the process the easier it is to keep them engaged. Let your child/teen talk to you about what they feel works for them.
Co-Planning Study Time
It’s good to have structure for both your kid/young adult and you. So make a plan together on how best to stay on top of the school year. You and your child should set out a plan of action that includes:
- The time of day the homework gets done, and how much time should be spent studying.
- How to prioritize weekly assignments.
- How often are breaks taken and what do they include? ie; going for a walk or run, maybe a snack and drink.
- What sort of a reward system should be built in? Maybe a favorite treat or screen time. Anything your child feels is worth putting effort into!
- How to keep the stress at bay. Again maybe walks (exercise should definitely be encouraged), time with a pet, music, etc.
- Making sure this is all implemented. Do you use timers, or color coded calendars, or what system works for your kid?
Minimize frustration for yourself as the parent!
Try to focus on what is being learned rather than the outcome of test grades. Progress not perfection is the adage. Kids (and teens) learn at different paces, so don’t forget to be aware of the little steps and enjoy watching the process happen.
Check in and talk to your kid about how they are feeling about the work. Promote and encourage small bite sized goals versus “you must get all A’s”. In the end there will be less of a fight for you and your family and a greater sense of pride and desire to achieve in your son or daughter.
CREATE THE WORKSPACE
As a tutor who spends time in the homes of my students, I can say another motivational factor that often gets overlooked is the actual workspace.
“A learning space involves educational, environmental, physical (engineering), and socio-emotional factors to maximize learning potential.”
A space created for work determines attitude. I am not just referring to a desk space, but a space designed with the intention of motivated, creative, stress-free learning.
- Make sure this space has no distractions. No TV, people in and out, little siblings, video games etc.
- Let your child choose the space. Maybe there is a hall or closet they love. Maybe their bedroom is best. ALSO, make sure they have good light. Low light is bad for the eyes and may make them drowsy or fidgety.
- Make a comfortable zone, flat workspaces with lots of space for pens and paper, shelves, comfy chairs. DO not use beds, this is uncomfortable and makes the student sleepy. Calendars and visuals and organizing boxes to keep it clutter free help. Make sure all the necessary tools are at hand (calculators, scissors etc. Talk to your child about what tools they may need).
- Let the student decorate the space with their touches. They are the ones that need to feel part of it and inspired in.
Finally, the last tip is don’t do their work for them! Guide them, make suggestions but let them learn. If motivation continues to be a problem don’t be afraid to get help. Talk to teachers, tutors, maybe even Drs. to determine if there is a learning challenge that needs to be addressed.
