Creating a home environment that encourages, supports and motivates learning and academic achievement can be key to your child's success in school. Although some kids are naturally motivated to learn, others need extra encouragement from mom, dad and other caring adults in their lives. Skip the lectures and opt for positive strategies and rewards to help you child be excited about school today and learning for a lifetime.
Step 1
Create a positive learning environment for your young child. Allow her to explore cause and effect through play, work through challenges and gain independence, recommends the National Association of School Psychologists. Praise and reward effort rather than accomplishments.
Step 2
Talk to your child. Encourage him to express his opinions and make decisions. Class participation is a big part of school success and practicing at home can help your child feel comfortable and succeed at school. Ask what he's learning and support his academic or social interests.
Step 3
Help your child get organized. Reduce his frustration by providing the necessary space and materials for school work at home, and helping him to stay on track with tests or projects, recommends Scholastic website.
Step 4
Celebrate your child's successes, hard work and effort. Rewards for good grades may discourage children who struggle, according to Richard Lavoie, author of "The Motivation Breakthrough: 6 Secrets for Turning On the Tuned-Out Child." Focus on persistence and improvement, rather than the grade on the test.
Step 5
Work with your child's teacher, recommends Lavoie. Together, the two of you can provide your child with challenges, but also with the support to meet those challenges. Close communication can allow you to intercede and provide additional help at home or with a tutor before your child experiences failure and becomes discouraged.
