Schoolwork: Question?

How can I get my child more interested and involved in her schoolwork?

Child thinking needs to be nurtured with meaningful reasons for doing things. Direct commands backed by punishment rarely work, and if they do, the results are not long term. Childhood behavior is either cooperative or defiant dependent on how we approach the issue. So how can we best motivate our children to want to do their schoolwork?

Weaknesses of Public Education

Without getting in a long dissertation on the shortcomings of a public school education, suffice it to say both teachers and students are handicapped by the current set up. Many excellent teachers have left the field, not because of the pay, but because of unnecessary regulations and red tape.

Also the curriculum is not set up to create an atmosphere of excitement to learn. Even though there are some children that do very well, the majority are not invested, which is dramatically evidenced in low tests scores nationwide. Replacing phonics with the Look-See Reading Method in our school system was not a wise decision.

Unless a child is fortunate enough to attend private school, or have a strong role model in their life, there is a high probability that school will not be a very satisfactory experience. Even though there are many excellent, dedicated, and qualified teachers in public education, the overall system does not contribute to maximum learning and development.

There Are Solutions

Film director, David Lynch, had this to say about business, but the message equally applies to education as well:

”Instead of instilling fear, if a company offered a way for everyone in the business to dive within—to start expanding energy and intelligence—people would work overtime for free. They would be far more creative. And the company would just leap forward. This is the way it can be. It’s not the way it is, but it could be the way so easily.”

All good teachers allow a child to express themselves creatively, and find ways for them to self motivate. As parents it is equally important to support our children in finding ways to positively express themselves, and engage in learning. Here are a few ideas.

Remember that you are the parent, and it is okay to set structure for a study program. In the afternoon or evening a time should be scheduled for homework in an area of the home without distractions. Be there to assist, encourage and support your child as needed. Reinforce the idea that it’s okay to make mistakes, and positively reinforce their efforts.

Encourage your child to dream, and help identify their strengths and weaknesses. Let them know that there are no stupid questions, and to freely ask them at home and in school. If necessary, set up a reward system for their efforts, rather than for the grades. Once a child is fully motivated and engaged, the grades will take care of themselves. Do whatever you can to make this an enjoyable experience.

In contrast to popular opinion, schoolwork can be rewarding and fun for a child. With a positive support system, and access to a better learning model, children will be motivated to learn. Here is an excellent resource for educational research and learning.

Khan Academy is an online program, with videos and practice exercises, that cover subjects such as math, chemistry, physics, basic finance and investing, astrology, venture capital, SAT prep, computer science, California Standard Tests, and more. This online program allows your child to learn at his or her own pace, and is an excellent aid to their current studies. Just as kids really want structure and guidance in their life, they also desire to learn, grow and expand. Let’s make it easier for them to do so.

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