How do you motivate kids?
There's a lot of philosophies out there about how to motivate children. So whether you're team #gentleparenting, teaching with love and logic, or just winging it day to day all these approaches come back to one debate: Should we use intrinsic or extrinsic motivation?
"I want to stop and thank you, baby" How Sweet It Is (to be loved by you) by your choice 🎸 Marvin Gaye or James Taylor
Did you realize two artists sang that song?
There's a lot of philosophies out there about how to motivate children. This is because their understanding of praise and rewards can impact them long term. The way a child is encouraged to work will impact their work ethic, motivation, and even self esteem.
So whether you're team #gentleparenting, teaching with love and logic, or just winging it day to day all these approaches come back to one debate:
Should we use intrinsic or extrinsic motivation?
The fear I hear the most often is: if we give out too many rewards or if children are too afraid of consequences they will not ever know what it's like to complete a task because you are supposed to.
But, I hear the opposite too: children should get to celebrate their childhood by being rewarded. They need extrinsic encouragement and reminders that they are great.
I'll share my thoughts and strategies next week. But I'm curious what you think- how often do you reward your children or students?
What's New? (contains affiliate links)
This time last year: My most recent video talks about 3 positive ways my life has changed since leaving teaching. I compare my life this week to the same time last year, and explain what I do day to day. Watch it here.
Outside time: I spent most of this weekend outside loving my city. I went to Charlotte Shout (immersive art festival) and Camden Commons (they shut down the street and put out furniture to hang out). I love casual events like this, it feels like I am a part of something just by showing up. I hope you can find some local markets, festivals, etc to stroll through too. 🌸
Pretty in Pink: My friend Suzanne (hi!) turned me on to these wrist weights. They are aesthetically pleasing and come in 8 colors, I got the light pink ones. I use them on my wrists or ankles for a little extra effort at the gym.
I hate water bottles: Mike and I try to keep sustainable habits, but what that really means is we own 10,000 water bottles. When I try to get something off the "water bottle shelf" I always knock down at least one grrr! I fixed that by buying this water bottle organizer . Now they are stacked neatly and my blood pressure has gone down 😂
Have a great week!
Natalie