It’s rare, but we have heard our parents mention that sometimes it's hard to get their kids to come to class, or go anywhere for that matter… but when they do they have a blast and don’t want to leave. Here is an article by #Teammate parent tips on how to counter and avoid that exact hassle.
No matter where you are going!
Our #Teammates Break It Down: 5 Tips For When Your Kids Don't Want To Go... Anywhere
Kids are not naturally self-motivated. When your child’s mindset is not in the right place, even the most fun activities can be a struggle to get to. With that said, here are some strategies to help you work around lack of motivation when trying to get your kid to karate class, or anywhere else for that matter.
Most Of All... Be Mindful
What Are They Doing?
- Be attentive to what your child is doing in the moment he/she is supposed to get ready for class, or to go anywhere. If he/ she is playing or having fun with a friend, then be ready for a battle. Have your child participate in a chore or task that’s not as much fun around 10 to 15-minutes prior mentiong that its time to get ready for class or to head to town.
How Are You Feeling?
- Be attentive to your own projection of emotions as you get your child ready for class. If you are stressed, rushed, or aggravated in any way, this will project the same emotions on your child. They will want to calm you down and make you happy. Meaning they may want you to be able to stay home and relax. Be sure to project positive and upbeat energy as you are getting your child ready for class or to head to town.
Do You Tend To Be Critical Or Reinforcing?
- Be attentive to how you respond to your child’s overall performance after class, or their behavior while out. If you are expressing too much emphasis on what he/ she did wrong versus right, then those negative feelings will carry over. Let us worry about correcting their training. If you have concerns about their progress reach out to us. Be sure to limit criticism and focus on more productive conversations after class about their improvements, what they did right, and complimenting their good behavior or patience while running errands.
Do You Tell Them?
- Be intentional with your goals by communicating with your child and your child’s instructors. Constant reminders for your child through the hours leading up to leaving the house remind them to expect it. The goal is to foster motivation and strong character. Let the instructors know about your struggles. That way they can be mindful to motivate your child before, during, and after class. As well as be your #Teammate on talking to them about having patience while running errands. It takes a village, so don’t be afraid to ask for support!
Are You Rewarding Desired Behavior?
- Prompt motivation by rewarding your child. Remember that children’s brains are still growing, and most of their development comes from positive stimulation and experiences. With that said, pre-frame the proper behavior that you would like to see when going to class, and then set an attainable number of classes he/ she must attend with this behavior, along with a reward for doing so. For example: attend the next 3 classes with the proper behavior (i.e. without complaining) and we will grab ice cream on the way home!
This #Teammate parent article was written by: Cory Rose