| Motivation refers to a set of personal factors that in | | | | project that is due. |
| part explain why a person behaves the way they do | | | | 4. If your child does not have any homework make |
| in a particular situation. Research has found that high | | | | sure they spend at least 30 minutes studying, |
| school dropouts are at three times the risk of living in | | | | reviewing and practicing their lessons. |
| poverty compared to their peers who complete high | | | | 5. Be sure to read and discuss with your child any |
| school. | | | | progress notes that are sent home. If necessary place |
| As a parent the first true test of your motivational skills | | | | restrictions on their activities or give consequences for |
| will be keeping your five-year old motivated once he | | | | misbehavior. |
| she realizes that school consists of the 3 R's (reading, | | | | 6. Reinforce the positives. Don't only focus on the |
| 'riting, and 'rithmetic) and not the 3 S's (snacks, Sesame | | | | negatives or misbehavior. |
| Street, and sleeping). Your job will only get tougher as | | | | 7. Encourage your child if they don't do well on a quiz |
| they get older and other competing interests come into | | | | or test. |
| play like cell phones, ipods, internet, boyfriends/girlfriends | | | | 8. If your child is having academic problems, seek help |
| and driving privileges. Below are some tips to help you | | | | from the teacher, a tutor or afterschool program. |
| keep your child motivated in school. | | | | 9. Talk with the teacher about different options and |
| 1. Discuss the importance of school and an education | | | | resources to help your child if he/she has a learning |
| to your child. | | | | problem. |
| 2. Ask your child each day how their day went in | | | | 10. Maintain regular ongoing contact with your child's |
| school. Make sure they give you specifics. | | | | teacher(s) regarding your child's academic progress |
| 3. Find out if they have any homework or class | | | | and behavior. |