Each child is individual in nature, with varying interests, abilities, and ambitions. Knowing what kind of things motivate a child shall let you grow and nurture that child so as to enable him/her to fulfill his/her potential. What follows is an elaborate guide to finding great ways to motivate and support your children.
1.Understand the types of motivation
Intrinsic Motivation: This motivation comes within the child when they engage in activities they genuinely enjoy and find meaningful. An example is when a child loves painting simply for joy.
Extrinsic Motivation: These are aspects that reinforce extrinsic rewards or recognition, such as through praise, grades, or gifts. Although this can be beneficial, it should also be maintained with intrinsic motivation so as to better engage long-term.
2.Observe Their Interests
Look out for activities and interests that excite your child.
Note what activities catch their fancy when free.
Ask open questions like, “What do you enjoy most about this?”
3.Set Goals Together
Help your child set realistic and age-appropriate goals.
Set attainable because these are smaller parts of larger goals.
Encourage them to take ownership of their goals to promote responsibility.
4.Reward It with Positive Reinforcement
Pay compliments for effort, not merely the result. For instance, say, “I’m proud of how hard you worked on this project” instead of passing over the result alone.
Small accomplishments must be celebrated to build self-esteem.
Avoid the comparison of your child with others; instead, point out the progress made.
5.Create a Supportive Environment
Ensure your child feels secure expressing thoughts and feelings.
Make provisions and opportunities for your child to follow through with their interests.
Eliminate distractions and establish routines that encourage focus and continuity.
6.Encourage Independence
Sometimes let him make choices or resolve problems by himself.
Allow him to take risks and learn from his failures.
Teach him that mistakes are part of the learning process and an opportunity to grow.
7.Be a Role Model
Show an attitude toward work; maintain vigorous practice.
Insight into your motivations and how you stick to your goals.
Show enthusiasm for learning and trying out new ideas.
8.Understand Their Problems
Try to pick out their discouragements or discomforts.
See what they are stuck on; approach always with discussion.
Intervene; however, do not force it too much so as to avoid stress or resentment.
9.Encourage the Growth Mindset.
Teach your child to understand that both abilities and intelligence can be developed.
Make statements that encourage perseverance, such as, “I can improve with practice” instead of “I just can’t do it.”
Honor persistence and resilience even in cases of failure.
10.Making Games Out of Work
Ensure that your child also engages in hobbies and relaxation.
Infuse learning and work with fun and creativity.
Use a balance of structured activity that lets some time for free play.
Conclusion
Various aspects motivate different children, and it requires observation and patience to discover what motivates them. By providing an environment that nurtures and encourages, you will support the child’s eternal quest for self-motivation and instill confidence and a love of learning. Because motivation may take different formulas depending on the child’s needs and personality, make sure to tailor the approach to suit them.
