How to Teach a Child Initiative

Self-motivation is the key to a child's success in school and in life. Children who set goals and follow through with them on their own, who believe in their abilities even when others don't, who don't give up when things get tough, succeed best in life. Once you learn the basics listed below, you can instill such values in your children.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

1. Give your children choices, rather than telling them what they must do. When you allow your children to have control over their own decisions within reason, they are more likely to motivate themselves to do what others ask of them.
2. Make your children believe they have the ability to accomplish whatever they want, even if others don't think they can succeed. The self-confidence this builds is essential to raising a motivated child.
3. Encourage your children to set their own goals, starting out small, like writing their name, reading a book or learning to ride a bike.Once they achieve their goal, reward them with lots of praise.
4. Sign your children up for the sport of their choice. Playing sports teaches determination, even in the face of competition and failure. It teaches children to work hard to become better at what they want. If one sport isn't working, be willing to sign them up for another one.
5. Have your children volunteer with you or on their own. Helping others in need instills a sense of confidence and motivation to work hard for the benefit of others.
6. Show your pride with encouragement and praise, rather than through tangible rewards. Research shows that positive attention is the best way to encourage children to develop internal motivation. Children eventually understand that pride is better than tangible rewards.

Tips & Warnings

• Be patient with your children. Instilling a sense of self-motivation takes years of consistent, positive behavior.
• Never make your children feel like quitters if they decide they don't like a sport or activity. The key is to encourage them to try new ones. Tell them it is fine as long as they keep trying new things.