Motivation Begins with the Teacher
Even the best teachers can struggle to motivate their students when they don’t believe in what they are teaching. The homeschool students react not just to the parent’s actual words, but also to their tone, body language and energy levels. Take for instance a homeschool teacher who is just not interested in teaching math. They may have struggled with the subject as a child, or simply find it too tedious. Whatever the reason, you can rest assured that their children are not going to be motivated to study math. Even if the children are good at it.
Recognition is as Good as a Reward
Consider a situation where the homeschool student has been struggling with handling their chores and lessons. It may be because of poor time management, or issues with the lessons which they haven’t understood. Eventually the child does manage to finish everything, way behind schedule for the day. The natural reaction of the parent may be one of relief that it was finally done, and then to forget all about it. This is actually demotivating for the child. Instead if the homeschool teacher called in everyone and acknowledged the completion of all tasks, it would make the child feel much more motivated to do it faster the next day.
Switch Out Activities
It can be difficult to continue staying positive when the children are having an off day. No work seems to be getting done and the frustration levels are mounting. Instead of yelling and shouting at everyone, which is never a good motivator, you may consider switching out the activity under consideration for something a bit more enjoyable. This doesn’t mean you leave them to play, instead it means studying a topic that is on the schedule, but which is easier for the children to digest at that time. For example, if math isn’t working, maybe read a story from the literature syllabus.
Keeping your students motivated is a large part of staying productive as a homeschool teacher. There are many other ways that you can continue to inspire and motivate your homeschool students. Which is your favourite one?
