Here
are some suggestions that will aid in increasing your
child's motivation, interest and learning.
Talk
to your child. Is there a distraction or stressor that
is preventing him or her from staying on task. This
could be a social problem with another child, the
organization of the classroom or a personal problem they
haven't shared with you yet. Be sure you
consider bullying in your investigation. It's an
insidious problem with dire consequences. Be
patient. Plant the seeds that you have noticed a
problem and slowly chip away at the subject.
Is he
or she interested in the classroom material? Is
your child able to grasp the material? Boredom
and frustration can create roadblocks to
learning. Consider outside supplementation with
educational software or a tutor. Sometimes all it takes
is a little reinforcement of the material or
presentation at the child's own learning pace. You will
find educational software particularly well suited to
that. If your child needs more personal assistance or
more interaction, then enlist the help of a tutor.
There are many reputable organizations that you can
contact, such as Kumon and Sylvan, but if your child is
reluctant, start with a local teen or older friend.
Enlist
the help and advice of your child's teacher. Your child's
teacher is a learning expert and wants your child to
succeed. They know tactics you haven't
thought of yet. And they see your child in a totally
different environment. Teachers can get
overwhelmed with the kids with the greatest needs, but
be assured, they will be able to give you insight into
your child.
Find
your child's passion and special ability and run
with it. Every kid has something that brings a
smile to their face: a drawing, a LEGO construction, a
musical or theatrical or sports performance,
understanding the workings of computer programs. This
can help in 2 ways. Self-esteem is a powerful tonic and
whatever constructive means can be used to build it,
should be used. The other way a special interest or
talent can help is as a track to follow for the future.
Find a high school or outside program where your
child can take classes (including technical classes) in
what they love. It will set them on a path to the
future that they will enjoy following.
Above
all, don't wait to take action. Your child' learning
success depends on communication and diligent pursuit of
the best learning style and environment for your child.
Watch for the summer newsletter for more ideas on
keeping your child's interest in learning alive over the
summer.
