Daily Tips for Families

Today's Tip for Families

03-31-2023

Feeling Capable Motivates Effort

Some children dive right into schoolwork. They’re willing to try hard, even if the work is tough. But others just seem to give up before they even get started. What’s the difference?

It turns out that the kids who believe in their ability to succeed are also willing to work hard at it.

That’s probably not surprising. Think about something you do well. Perhaps it’s a hobby. Perhaps it’s a type of project at work. If you know it’s likely to turn out well in the end, you’ll probably give it your best effort. You'll likely stick with it even if you hit a few bumps in the road.

On the other hand, you probably don’t want to work too hard on something you know is likely to turn out badly.

Kids are no different. To motivate your elementary schooler to succeed academically, first make it clear that your child has the ability to learn and do well on schoolwork. Then remind your child that ability without effort won’t get the job done. Kids who believe they can be successful are usually willing to work hard to make that belief come true.

Brought to you by:

Jackson County Schools