Every parent wants their child to be successful and happy; to blossom into a confident, well-rounded person. But really, what makes the child tick? Why is it sometimes excited to take on the task while at other times appear completely disengaged from it? If we understand what connects our child to the task, we will know how to support, encourage, and guide their passions throughout life-enhancing experiences.
In this article, we will discuss what motivates kids, how to figure out what drives your child, and how to fan those inner flames. So come on, let’s dig in!
What Exactly is Motivation?
Motivation is the driving force that compels a person to act, to strive toward goals, and continues within themselves, even in the face of obstacles. It derives from many sources, especially curiosity, and a sense of accomplishment, in children- which can be intrinsic-or external, such as praise or rewards.
There are two basic types of motivation:
Intrinsic Motivation: This comes from within. For instance, a child may read a storytelling book because he or she loves stories, or a child may play football because he enjoys the game. However, it is his own interests and passions that lead him on.
Extrinsic Motivation: This comes from outside sources. A child may study hard to get good grades, clean their room to earn pocket money, or behave well to avoid punishment. Driven away from these kids by external reward or punishment.
While intrinsic and extrinsic forms of motivation are not mutually exclusive, intrinsic motivation is especially powerful in that it nurtures life-long interests in learning and self-betterment.
What Motivates Children?
Each child is different, and what inspires or motivates one child may not do so for another. However, in general, there are several factors that tend to inspire children:
1. Curiosity and Exploration
Curiosity is inherent to children. They want to explore the world, ask questions, and try to fathom how things work. These were the building blocks of their formation of skills, taking on new ventures and resolving problems.
How to nurture it: Instead of merely telling your child to stop asking questions, give them ways to explore. Take them to museums, parks, or science fairs. Let them do great things, fail, and learn about their mistakes afterward.
A Sense of Achievement
Children love to feel capable and accomplished. Achieving any goal brings a feeling of confidence and pride-whether it be completing a puzzle, scoring a goal, or mastering a new math concept.
How to nurture it: Celebrate your child’s efforts, not just their successes. Encourage children to set realistic goals; further divide bigger tasks into smaller, manageable steps, and reinforce the approval of hard work.
Praise and Recognition
Children thrive on positive feedback. They will be inclined even more to repeat that behavior or activity which has earned them praise when they feel recognized and appreciated.
How to nurture it: Be very specific with your praise. Instead of saying “Good job!” say, “I love how you kept trying even when it was hard.” Support the idea of hard work, not the result.
Autonomy and Independence
This involves allowing children some control over their lives. When afforded choices, they feel empowered to perform.
How to nurture it: As much as possible, give your child choices. Let him choose his own clothes to wear, what book he wants to read, or what snack he wants to eat. Ask your child to be responsible for small things at home, like packing your school bag or setting the table.
- Connection and Belonging
From being within the family framework and interacting with circles of friends, a child feels belonging to the whole community. This is the motivation behind cooperation, sharing, and especially contribution.
How to nurture it: Spend some time with the child, stay in touch with them, take an avid interest in all aspects of their lives, and build some family traditions. Foster good relationships with other peers; encourage group activities.
- Fun and Play
It is that fun, when doing entertainment activity allured by children. They are mires for the possibility of remaining interested, getting motivated, learning when it seems like amusement.
How to nurture it: Set goals for learning through games, storytelling, and hands-on activities, but allow the child to pursue hobbies and interests that are enjoyable.
- Role Models and Inspiration
Children often idolize their parents, elder siblings, and fictional characters. They indulge in learning behaviors emulated by those they admire.
How to nurture it: Set a good example for your child. Share stories of inspirational people; introduce your child to books, movies, or real-life heroes who exemplify persistence and kindness.
- Challenges and Growth
Children like a challenge that is neither too easy nor too hard. Their achievements in overcoming the challenges enable them to grow better and become accomplished.
How to nurture it: Support children as they step out of their comfort zones to try something new. Be there for the child in the face of difficulties, but do not solve the problem for them.
Identifying Your Child’s Theories of Motivation
This is because every child is unique, hence observation is key t understanding what uniquely motivates yours. Here’s how:
Look and Listen: What does your child talk about? What activities does he or she joyfully engage in? Take further note of what makes him stay on the track and appear happy.
Ask Questions: Encourage your child to speak about what he or she likes or plans to do. Ask broad questions like, “What do you totally love doing?” or “When are you very proud?”
Try Things Out: Apply their interests by letting them try a variety of activities and see what intrigues them most. Get them to engage in various experiences like sports, arts, science, nature, and so forth.
Identify Their Behavioral Characteristics: Is there a recurring pattern in their behavior? Do they become more competitive upon receiving “pats on the back”? Do they enjoy working solo or in collaboration?
Practical Ways to Motivate Your Child
Now, since you know what motivates children and how to identify your child’s drivers, here are some practical tips to keep your child motivated:
1. Provide a Conducive Atmosphere
When your child enters an exhilarating atmosphere, motivation builds by the second.A child should always find himself/herself in conditions where safety, love, and value thrive.
Tip: Hang up his doodles, certificates, or any papers affiliated with his accomplishments. Put up a reading nook or a workspace for them to engage in hobby activities.
2. Set Expectations
Motivation increases because the child knows what is expected and what’s being targeted. That means clear, age-relevant goals and the reason for this expectation.
Tip: For the younger ones, use charts and checklists in explaining a task, while tracking their progress.
Be Case provocation doesn’t be overnight. It takes time, thickness and tolerance to help your child develop their inner drive.
Final Thoughts
Your own source of power as a parent is to recognize what drives your child. By taking advantage of their curiosity, throwing a party for their success, and giving emotional support, you have the potential to instill in them the inner pull that they will need to grab the opportunities mammal-life provides.
One thing you should recall is that the motivation of your child should be viewed not as a push to be the best among other kids but a way of helping them find out what they like, building their self-esteem, and having a lifelong love of learning. With the help of great patience, encouragement, and some craftiness, you can be there to guide your child to success so that they can enjoy the randomness of the journey.
