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Parents
Motivate Your Child
Show your pride By acknowledging your child's successes, you'll help her build confidence. Display a writing essay, artwork or report card on the fridge.
Keep praise genuine Children know when you're lying, but it's possible to be positive even when your child is having difficulties. Try phrases like: That was a good try, or You got part of it right.
Don't give in to the temptation to bribe The reward for school success should be increased self-respect and a renewed enjoyment of learning not a new skateboard.
Don't make comparisons Harping on an elder sibling's success or that of a classmate will only alienate your child. Students who lack motivation at school often seek out these negative signals; don't give them any fodder to discourage them further.
Respect your child's frustration If your child is struggling with schoolwork, don't say, Oh, come on, that should be easy. Say, Gee, that assignment is tough, and praise his persistence. Try to help just enough to get him over the hump.
Encourage self-reliance Doing your child's homework for him sends the message that you don't think he's capable of doing it himself. You want to increase his self-confidence, not undermine it.