7 Strategies for Keeping Kids Focused and Motivated While Learning

It's not unusual for children to become demotivated or lose focus while learning. There could be a variety of reasons for them to feel this way. Maybe they're just tired, don't feel well, don't feel challenged, or are having one of their lazy days (we all do, don't we?). Pay attention, however, if your children continue to feel this way and underperform in school. It could be something more serious that requires immediate intervention. Discovering what’s preventing your children from feeling motivated will assist you and them in developing a plan that works best for both of you. Learning should take place not only in the classroom but also outside of its four walls. If you truly want to increase your children's desire to learn and ability to focus, the eight strategies listed below could help. Develop A Love for Reading Image credit: Canva Isn't reading the most important part of learning? Your children will be required to read textbooks, instructions, and notes, to name a few. That’s why you children must develop a love of reading. The love can be instilled in your children with the right environment, approach, and books. It doesn't necessarily mean that you need to have a huge library at home. You could start with setting up a reading nook in your kids' bedroom or the living room where they can choose the book they want to read. It's strongly advised that you read with them as well and that you make it a routine of reading them bedtime stories. Make Learning Fun Image credit: Canva If your kids are demotivated because they feel school or any of the lessons are boring, you’ll simply have to bring the fun to them. There are tons of learning games you can create or print out from the internet. Kids who enjoy playing games while learning will be able to catch on and remember what they’re learning better. Learning games will assist children who enjoy playing in better grasping and remembering what they're learning. A mother once told a story about her son struggling with multiplications. Then she realised her son could memorise the times table by repeating it aloud while kicking a football back and forth. What a unique way to learn! Provide A Designated Study Area Image credit: Canva Just as you prefer to work in a comfortable setting, your children will require a designated study area to concentrate on their studies. At the same time, you can plan a study session with your children. Determine how many hours a day should be set aside for home learning and which subjects should be covered. It's best to devote more time to subjects in which your children may be struggling or failing. Try Various Learning Styles Image credit: Canva Remember that this learning time is all about your kids, so pay attention to what they're interested in. If they prefer to learn in certain ways, then go with the flow. If they are unsure, you can introduce some of the learning styles and see which ones work for them. There are 12 learning styles, according to Good Sensory Learning. Once your kids found the learning styles that work best for them, they’ll be able to enjoy the learning process and perform well in class. Be Nearby and Supportive Image credit: Canva Homework and studying can be challenging for children. So, make sure you're nearby to assist them when they need it. Always remind them that it's okay to make mistakes and that they'll learn from them. Make it a point to assist your children rather than doing their homework. Allow them to try first so they can better understand what they're learning. Create a Reward System Image credit: Canva This always works like a charm, especially for primary school students. They simply enjoy being rewarded for their good work. Make sure the reward system encourages them to learn, so reward them for finishing their homework, revising what they've learned in school, finishing a storybook, doing extra exercises, and so on. Your children will be more motivated if they feel their efforts have been recognised. “Have a Break, Have a KitKat” Image credit: Canva Never leave your kids to study without taking a break. Allow them to loosen up and choose an activity that your children would enjoy doing during their break time, maybe take a short walk or have a KitKat? Oxford Learning recommends using a timer to remind your child when it's time to take a break, taking breaks every 30 minutes of work, and keeping breaks between 5 and 10 minutes long. It’ll benefit your children as they get to refresh their minds and remain focused for the next round. It Pays to Be a Learning-Driven Child Image credit: Canva Here are some of the potential benefits that your children will reap if they can maintain their focus and are motivated to learn. Become lifelong learners who are creative and adventurous More engaged in their learning and development Consistent when dealing with difficult tasks Capable of operating and working independently without clinging Always eager to try something new Not worried about pushing themselves to improve Unafraid of making mistakes and learning from them. Never Ever Give Up Image credit: Canva This applies to both you and your children. It's difficult enough for your children to remain focused and motivated while learning. So, don't be so hard on them that they lose interest. As parents, you should introduce as many strategies as possible and encourage your children to learn. You'll feel out of this world when you see your children discover the joy of learning and become engaged in their studies, whether at home or school. For more insightful stories and fun recipes, stay tuned to Motherhood Story!

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