Schoolwork can sometimes prove to be tasking for children, especially the young ones who are new to this kind of pressure, therefore, parents should take the initiative to help their children cope with difficulties in learning. Teaching children to handle academic stress can help prepare them for an even tougher future when they begin working in the real world. Here are some of the few things parents can do to help their kids keep on top of their schoolwork.
1. Encourage them to make attainable goals
While it seems trite to most parents, the practice of setting goals has proven itself important in getting the job done. Have children make a list of things they want to accomplish for the school year, whether it is to become one of the top students in their grade or just be able to get an above average grade in a subject he or she dislikes.. The key factor in goal setting is to keep it realistic. For example, if a low-ranking student aims to be the top student in two terms, that would be a bit unrealistic as there might not be enough time to accomplish the set goal. This will only set children up for disappointment and worse, discourage them from trying again. Having goals will remind children to keep their focus on what they need to do in order to achieve it, or, as some would put, keeping their eyes on the prize.
2. Get them to practice planning ahead
Once children have set their realistic goals, review these goals with them and brainstorm for a possible action plan. For example, if the child tells his or her parents that he wants to be the spelling bee champion of the school for this school year, the parents can suggest by having regular family spelling games in their own homes to help him or her practice. Help kids map out the possible steps they can take to reach their goals, help them assess if these steps are necessary or feasible for them.
Teach children the importance of setting their priorities straight and remind them that what they do today can affect the outcome tomorrow. Knowing the specific steps to reach set goals make it more attainable, and encourages them to move closer towards achieving it.
3. Encourage them
Children may feel discouraged from time to time, especially if they are experiencing difficulty and are losing hope in ever completing their targets. Parents should become their kids’ number one fan, cheering them on and reminding them why they need to achieve their goals. They should remind their children that these bouts of disappointment or moments of failure are normal and sometimes important as they remind one to keep their eyes on the prize and never give up. If kids feel too much pressure, constantly remind them that they will not be judged in life based on this single moment, but how they lived their life as a whole.
While they are still young, children should be taught not to give up and keep focused on the things that they want to achieve for themselves. As they grow older, children will learn to adapt these management skills and will help them succeed in life.
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Parents encouraging kids to work in groups, helps reduce the stress of homework a lot!
Comment by Sah vikas — March 12, 2009 @ 12:02 pm