How to keep your child motivated

First, avoid putting pressure on yourself to become your child's teacher. There is a difference between helping your child learn and teaching him. With this in mind, you and your teen can put in place various techniques to foster their motivation and autonomy.

Plan the schedule

Encourage your child to plan their day (class time, study time, non-school screen time, leisure time, and family time). You can help them establish a routine and a balanced homework schedule. Getting them involved in the planning process will help them develop independence. Consider reminding your child of the following points:

• Organize their schedule with priority activities in mind
• Incorporate breaks into their schedule when they are working on the computer or tablet
• Save time for relaxation
• Encourage them to use their planner
• Keep social media at bay during class time or while doing assignments
• Avoid doing homework in front of the television
• Do not put off tasks that are less enjoyable

Create a space to work and study

Space and time are the cornerstones of motivation. Are you facing a space limitation? It might be possible to design a workspace that is suitable for everyone. Remember that an airy, well-lit study space will help your teen concentrate more effectively.

Agree on common rules about screen use

Do you feel like your child is always in front of a screen, especially with the pandemic? Is this a source of conflict? Stéphanie Dionne, a Digital Use Facilitator, suggests drawing up a contract with your child to facilitate the dialogue around screen use.

Accepting stress, anxiety and emotions

Here are some ways to approach your teen:

• Validate their emotions and name that they have the right to feel that way
• Discuss or plan a motivating activity for your teen to do
• Remind them that each situation is temporary
• Discuss the impact of certain situations (e.g., the pandemic) on mental health
• Explore ways to manage stress with them

Observe good lifestyle habits

A healthy lifestyle helps teens find a balance in the different areas of their lives. The trifecta? Physical activity, healthy eating, and good sleep hygiene.

Reassure them and value effort more than results

Your focus on effort, improvement, progress, and positive actions will boost your child's self-esteem and confidence. If your child is failing a subject, here are some tips:

• Reassure them that it is okay to make mistakes
• Avoid comparing your child to other students or siblings
• Look for solutions together
• Encourage them in subjects or activities where they are doing well
• Praise them for their progress

Value their schooling and take an interest in their work

Take a moment to stop and talk with your teen about the importance of a high school education. Here are some ideas to open the discussion:

• Address the importance you place on his education
• Take the opportunity to remind your child that you are there to help and support them if they are having difficulties
• Ask questions, ask them what they learned, what they liked most and least about their day, what difficulties they encountered
• Don't hesitate to offer to help with homework and lessons, as this will demonstrate your interest in the schooling and in their success
• Encourage them to be active players in their learning and to ask questions during class 

Explore extracurricular or mentoring activities

Find out what extracurricular or mentoring activities are available at your child's school or in various organizations in your neighbourhood. Not only does this create a sense of belonging to the school, but it is also an opportunity to build strong friendships. A tutor can also be used to help overcome academic difficulties.

Identify a longer-term goal

The first step is to help your child find out what they are passionate about. Then, make connections between that passion and possible occupations.  Having the goal of a earning a certain diploma will make it easier for your child to persevere through difficult times!

Establish a good parent-teacher relationship

In these exceptional times, it is normal to be concerned about your child's motivation and to feel helpless. 

Never hesitate to set aside time to share a moment with your child, where fun is at the forefront, and above all, show your affection every day.

Finally, don't hesitate to contact your child's teachers.  They will be able to help you find solutions and overcome the obstacles.

References (in French)

Alloprof parents
École branchée
Succès scolaire
Fondation Jasmin Roy