Your child will be most motivated to reach goals if they're personal and meaningful. She should write them down, along with steps needed to accomplish them. These ideas will help:
- Ask you child what is important to her. What would she be proud to achieve? For example, "I would like to raise my grade in math.
- Help her set reasonable and specific goals. Have her choose an attainable, defined goal. "I want to get a B instead of a C on my next report card.
- Have her note steps from start to finish. "I will review math for 10 extra minutes a night." "On Tuesdays, Dad will tutor me." "I will study for three nights before the test." Have her use a calendar to stay on track.
- Help her plan ahead for obstacles. "I have soccer practice two nights a week. If I want extra time to study, I will have to start earlier those days."
- Encourage her to post her goals in a spot where she can refer to them. At least once a month, she should review her progress and make any necessary changes.
Source: Lawrence J. Greene, Improving Your ChildÃ¢Â€Â™s Schoolwork, ISBN: 0-7615-0163-0 (Prima Publishing, 1-800-733-3000, www.primapublishing.com).