Encouraging Academic Effort
Academic Effort is an essential part of doing well in school. Being motivated, willing to put forth effort and coming to class prepared for learning are key parts to a successful school experience.
As a parent, there are many things you can do to motivate your child and encourage academic effort. One of the most important is building self-confidence and setting your child up for success. The experts say that the more parents do to help their child feel successful, the more he/she will be willing to strive for success.
Ways to Encourage Academic Effort
1. Help your child set achievable goals. Then, don't wait to offer encouragement. Point out the small success along the way: "You did better on this week's quiz. Keep it up and you'll raise that grade before you know it!"
2. Nurture your child's natural curiosity. Welcome his/her questions. Show your own curiosity about things, too.
3. Be a model learner. Let your child know that learning never ends. Talk with him about the things you learn when you read the paper or when you chat with a friend.
For more information check out this publication from the US Department of Education;