Discussing the Skill’s Importance
Discuss the benefits that flow from acquiring a skill
To motivate a child to learn a new skill, they need to understand why learning it is important. Discuss the different benefits for them, for you and for others.
When you talk with children about the benefits they will gain from learning a new skill, be sure you are talking about skills that are both meaningful and relevant.
Don’t attempt to avoid negative issues
When you discuss the benefits of learning a new skill with your child, try not to focus on negative consequences that learning the skill will help them avoid (for example “You won’t be so lonely”; “People won’t be angry with you”; “You won’t get into trouble”). Highlight instead the real positive consequences of acquiring the skill (for example “Your parents will be proud of you”, “You’ll be able to go summer camp”, “It’ll be easier for you find new friends”).
Help your child recognise benefits that are meaningful to them
When you talk with children about the benefits they will gain from learning a new skill, be sure you are talking about skills that are both meaningful and relevant. For example, if a child is interested in football, spend time together working out how learning the skill will turn them into a better or more successful football player; or if spending time with friends is their favourite pastime, discuss how learning the skill could help them make more friends or become more popular.
This article is owned by: Kids’Skills http://www.kidsskillsapp.com/
