Daily Tips for Families

Today's Tip for Families

09-21-2024

Choose Words That Motivate, Not Discourage

Your elementary schooler has been working to master a new skill in class. But when you look at the schoolwork that comes home, it's clear that your child still doesn’t understand it. The language you use to talk together about it can motivate your child … or cause your child to give up.

Saying things like "You haven’t quite mastered this yet," sends a signal that your child can get the answer or master the skill by continuing to work at it. Studies show that children will keep working if they believe they can figure out the answer … even if they’re "not there yet." On the other hand, if you say, "You still don't understand," your child may think that will always be true.

Brought to you by:

West Point Consolidated School District