Goals We Set Are Goals We Get
October 6th, 2009When your child is having trouble in school, it’s never right to assume it’s from lack of trying. There are a number of reasons why your child may not be doing as well as he could. Maybe he lacks the motivation he needs to keep going when assignments and tests get difficult. He could be embarrassed to participate in class for fear of getting an answer wrong. It could even be that he has trouble maintaining his focus in class.
To help keep your child motivated in school he has to take an active part in his education. This means participating in class, completing assignments and asking questions. This may seem frightening to some children who would rather sit quietly than risk making a mistake in front of their classmates, but it’s the only way for them to reach their full potential.
Help motivate your child in school by teaching him how to set goals. Focus on small goals before going for the big picture. For example, instead of setting a goal to get an A in math on his next report card, your child should set a goal to get an A on the next test, or even more specifically than that, to practice his math problems every night. Focusing on small tasks as a means to reach a big goal make the goal seem more attainable.
You should always celebrate with your child when he reaches a goal. This can even be added incentive to make him work his hardest. You could tell him you will take him bowling or to his favorite restaurant when he gets that A in math. After the celebration comes another important step: set the next goal.
Your child may need help with class participation. It takes confidence to raise your hand to answer a question, write your answers on the blackboard or volunteer to help in class; however, this type of participation is necessary for your child to get the most out of his education. So how do you make your child more confident?
Start by finding something he loves to do, whether it is baseball, ballet, painting, or any other activity your child is enthusiastic about. Chances are if they enjoy doing something they will be more apt to take an active role in it. This proactive approach means they will be building their skills, something that definitely increases confidence.
Mary Barrett saw a big difference in her son Christopher’s confidence in only a short time after he started doing karate. “He has shown a great improvement in his school work,” she said. “His teachers have also seen the difference in him; he participates more in class and shows more self-control.”
The start of a new school year is the perfect opportunity to find new ways to jumpstart your child’s education. All he may need is a little bit of confidence and dedication to reach his full scholastic potential. Karate is an activity that can give him what he needs to succeed, whether that is more focus, the courage to stand up to peer pressure, or increased confidence. Whatever method you choose for helping your child improve in school, let him know that as long as he puts forth his best effort, you will be proud of him.
Contributed by Solomon Brenner Master instructor of Action Karate and Author of Black Belt Parenting. New classes are forming now ages 2 & up Call to reserve you spot 215-355-5003
Solomon Brenner
Master Instructor Action Karate
Author Black Belt Parenting “the art of raising your child for success”
