How can I increase my child’s motivation?

Most children and adults have goals, like making the honor roll, getting picked for a team, or losing weight. Many times, people with a goal in mind start out going strong and are initially successful, but then lose some of that drive and have trouble getting motivated again. Motivation is the key to success in every endeavor, as only one who is motivated to accomplish will push boundaries and invest all of his energy into the project.

On the surface, it can seem easy to motivate kids. Simply saying the word “candy” is known to do wonders for large classes of unruly children, and most children try their best when they are competing with another child. These methods of extrinsic motivation, though easy, can be harmful to children. Parents and educators must learn to motivate children to succeed based on incentives rather than bribes, and should focus on the inner sense of satisfaction the child will receive once the task is completed.

In the Jewish Community

Motivation or the lack of it is a common problem in the Jewish community. From a young age, children are expected to spend long hours in school with few breaks and extra-curricular activities. Although these classrooms are equipped with many prizes and contests, many children lack internal motivation. They work toward the prize without thinking why their actions are important. This may seem insignificant, but it can lead to problems when these children turn into teenagers and start to question why they do things.

Use the following links to educate yourself about motivation. Learn why motivation is important and how you can motivate your child.

Frequently Asked Links

What is motivation?

Why is motivation important?

How are children motivated?

How can I raise a motivated child? more

How can I help my child set realistic goals?

What tools are available to help my child work towards his or her goal?

How can I help my child stay motivated?

How do some kids stay motivated?

What are the differences between incentives and bribes?

By Rabbi Yakov Horowitz

How can competitions and rewards be harmful to my child?

By Dr. Benzion Sorotzkin, Psy.D.

What is the best motivation to use to exercise?

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Resources

American Dietetic Association
http://www.eatright.org
The American Dietetic Association offers nutrition news, tips, resources for consumers and dietitians, and a find-a-nutrionist search tool. Call: (800) 877-1600

QuitNet
http://www.quitnet.org
QuitNet offers tips, tools, and help for those who want to quit smoking.

American Council on Exercise (ACE)
http://www.acefitness.org
ACE promotes active, healthy lifestyles by setting certification and education standards for fitness instructors and through ongoing public education about the importance of exercise.

American Psychological Association (APA)
http://www.apa.org
The APA provides information and education about a variety of mental health issues for people of all ages.