How do you motivate a lazy child in school?

It’s common for children to lack motivation in school. This can be because the child has anxiety, social challenges, or a learning disability. But other times, children without a diagnosis can lack motivation and struggle to reach their full potential in school.  

Here are some ideas for parents to encourage their children to work harder at school.

(1)     Show your child that you care about schoolwork. Regularly ask them how their classes are going. Make sure that they know you are there to support them if they need homework help. Show an interest in the subjects and topics they are learning and ask them what they like and don’t like about the schoolwork.

(2)    Encourage them and use positive reinforcement. Ensure that you reward effort rather than outcome, showing that you respect hard work. You don’t need to give your child big rewards, just small ones like a hug or a few extra minutes of screen time. Your child will start to achieve if it feels good for them.

(3)    Help your child see the big picture. Older children may understand delayed gratification, but younger children only focus on the here and now. Linking school work with longer-term goals can make the work feel more personally fulfilling

(4)   Let your child make mistakes. No child can get perfect scores all the time. While your child needs encouragement, and it’s healthy to push them to try their best, know that setbacks are natural. Sometimes the only way your child will learn how to prepare for school properly is by finding out what happens when they’re unprepared.

(5)    Consider getting outside help. One way to ease the tension away from your relationship with your child is to find a tutor to support and encourage their learning.

(6)    Make the teacher your ally. Your child’s teacher will have additional insights into how to motivate your child. Share any strategies or ideas that you have with each other and work as a team.

(7)    Get support for yourself. Watching your child withdraw from school and lose motivation to work is frustrating. Talk to other parents, and share your worries and concerns. It is comforting to know that you’re not alone.

Read a short story to motivate your child.