Getting children to enjoy school can be challenging for many parents, but it’s important. Education is a crucial aspect of a child’s life and sets the foundation for future success. A recent survey showed that only 49% of fourth-graders enjoy school, while a much lower percentage admitted to hardly being happy at school. If your child dislikes schools, there could be many reasons for it. However, as a parent, there are some ways to get them to enjoy school, including the tips below.
- Encourage a love of learning
A love of learning creates an intrinsic motivation to engage in academic activities, leading to better grades and a more positive attitude toward school. You can start this by creating a positive learning environment at home. Please encourage your child to read, engage in educational games and activities, and provide them with a dedicated study space. You can also create a supportive environment where they feel comfortable asking questions and exploring their interests. Another way to encourage a love of learning is to help your kids discover their passions. When you allow them to explore their interests and find their passions, your children will be happy to explore further. It could be extracurricular activities such as sports, music, or art. Resources like Generation Genius can also help your child learn to love Math and Science. The more they engage in activities they enjoy, the more likely they are to develop a love for learning. Additionally, you can foster a curious mindset in your young ones by teaching them to ask questions. When they do, it will help to provide positive reinforcement for their efforts, progress, and attempts to understand the world around them.
- Foster a growth mindset
Fostering a growth mindset is another helpful way to help your child enjoy school and succeed in their education. Children with a growth mindset are more likely to see challenges as opportunities for growth and learning rather than failures. It sounds like a difficult concept to explain to a child, but you can overcome this challenge by simplifying it. You can also stress effort over ability as you focus on your child’s work rather than their grades or test scores. Show them that consistent hard work and persistence in challenging situations are key to success. Use different experiences to show them how perseverance has worked for you. That way, your child can make that connection and be motivated to try that out.
- Promote positive relationships with teachers and peers
Promoting positive relationships with teachers and peers can play a significant role in helping your child enjoy school and succeed in their education. Children with healthy relationships with their teachers and peers will likely feel happy and engaged in the classroom. They are also more likely to do well academically. You can do this by encouraging your child’s participation in class. Let them know that it is alright to approach their teacher if they need further understanding of a topic. Over time, this will boost their confidence. As a parent, fostering open communication with your children’s teacher is helpful. When you do, you will be more informed and updated on your kids’ performance in school. That can provide enough background to increase your efforts at helping your child enjoy school.