How to motivate your child to revise
by The Adapt team • January 30, 2024 • Revision
How to motivate your child to revise when they just don't feel like it
As a parent, it can be challenging to motivate your child to revise for their GCSEs or A Levels. With so many distractions in their daily lives, it's easy for revision to take a back seat. However, effective revision is crucial to achieving exam success. Here are some top tips for motivating your child to revise:
1. Understand their motivation
The first step in motivating your child to revise is to understand what motivates them. For some children, it may be the desire to get into a particular college or university. For others, it may be the desire to pursue a certain career. Talk to your child and understand what motivates them to succeed academically.
2. Set clear goals
Once you understand your child's motivation, help them set clear and achievable goals. These goals should be specific, measurable, and time-bound. For example, if your child wants to achieve an A grade in a particular subject, help them break down the steps they need to take to achieve that goal. Setting clear goals helps your child to focus on what they need to do to succeed.
3. Create a revision schedule
Creating a revision schedule can help your child to stay on track and avoid procrastination. Work with your child to create a schedule that is realistic and achievable. Make sure that they factor in time for breaks and relaxation, as taking regular breaks can actually improve concentration and retention.
4. Provide incentives
Providing incentives can be a powerful motivator for your child. For example, you could offer to take them out for their favorite meal or buy them a small gift once they have completed a certain amount of revision. It's important to make sure that the incentives are achievable and appropriate.
5. Offer support and encouragement
Offering support and encouragement can make a big difference in motivating your child to revise. Let them know that you are proud of their efforts and offer words of encouragement when they need it. Be available to help them with their revision and answer any questions they may have.
6. Make revision fun
Revision doesn't have to be dull and boring. There are many ways to make revision more fun and engaging. For example, you could create revision games, use flashcards, or watch educational videos together. Make sure that your child takes regular breaks and has fun during their revision sessions.
7. Use positive reinforcement
Using positive reinforcement can be a powerful motivator for your child. When they achieve a goal or complete a revision session, offer praise and positive feedback. This helps to reinforce their positive behaviors and encourages them to continue their hard work.
8. Provide a supportive environment
Creating a supportive environment for your child can help to motivate them to revise. Make sure that they have a quiet and distraction-free space to study. Provide them with healthy snacks and drinks to keep their energy levels up. Make sure that they take regular breaks and get enough sleep.
9. Lead by example
Leading by example is one of the most powerful ways to motivate your child to revise. If your child sees that you are committed to your own goals and working hard to achieve them, they are more likely to adopt a similar attitude towards their own revision. Make sure that you set a good example by prioritizing your own work and staying focused on your goals.
10. Keep a positive attitude
Finally, it's important to keep a positive attitude when it comes to revision. Avoid criticizing or nagging your child, as this can have the opposite effect and demotivate them. Instead, focus on the positive steps that they are taking towards their goals and offer support and encouragement along the way.
Motivating your child to revise can be a challenge, but it's not impossible. By understanding their motivation, setting clear goals, and providing support and encouragement, you can help your child to achieve exam success.