Tip of the Week

March 5, 2018

Flip the script

It’s often hard to get children to finish tasks like homework or chores. Sometimes, students can’t see the benefit of just getting the task done. While there’s no easy, one-size-fits-all solution, try flipping the script. Rather than focusing on negative consequences (what you’ll take away or what they’ll miss out on), try shifting the focus to the positive outcomes of getting the “job” done: not feeling pressured or overwhelmed at the last minute; a clear conscience to do something fun; a clean room or organized backpack and binders where he can actually find things; or simply the enrichment that comes from learning something new. Sometimes a reminder of the benefits can be enough to nudge a student forward.