How to boost confidence and build motivation in school-going children

Teachers have a tough(er) job, these days, competing with more outside influences than any generation before them. It is becoming more and more challenging to keep attention and motivate learners in and out of the classroom.

Boosting confidence and motivation in school-going children is crucial for their overall academic success and personal development. When learners have a strong sense of confidence and motivation, they are more likely to engage actively in their learning, take risks, and persevere through challenges. Here are some key points to consider:

Recognise and Celebrate Achievements

Acknowledging and celebrating a child’s achievements, whether big or small, can significantly boost their confidence. Teachers, parents, and tutors should take the time to recognise a child’s progress and effort, reinforcing their belief in their abilities. This recognition can be through verbal praise, but may also include certificates or small rewards for larger tasks, creating a positive reinforcement loop that encourages them to continue striving for success.

Provide Constructive Feedback

Constructive feedback plays a vital role in building confidence and motivation. Instead of focusing solely on pointing out mistakes, it is important to provide specific feedback that highlights a child’s strengths and areas of improvement. By emphasizing their progress and offering guidance on how to overcome challenges, children gain confidence in their abilities and feel motivated to work towards further growth.

Gamify lessons

Gamification implies applying gaming dynamics in the classroom to enhance learners’ skills and performance. It aids in collaboration, critical thinking and creative problem solving. It increases motivation, boosts interest and offers immediate feedback to learners. There are a variety of ways to gamify lessons:

• Set up a point system and start assigning points for tasks and expected behaviours.
• Promote healthy competition by setting up a leader board.
• Assign unique badges (Critical Thinker of the Month, Best Conversationist…) and term-end awards.
• Form teachers can work across the curriculum! Coordinate with subject teachers and create a roadmap for the term which includes selected tasks from all learning areas. Learners unlock rewards or points by completing the selected tasks across the timetable.
• Play a game of Trivial Pursuit using cross-curricula information. Do this as a form of revision before exams.
• Get creative and re-create classic games like Snakes and Ladders. Draw a question mark on 20 selected blocks and keep a pack of cards ready which test curriculum content. Learners or teams must answer correctly before moving on.
• Get classes competing! The Battle of the Grade Sixes will be fun-filled and competitive, and will surely improve morale overall.

Cultivate a Growth Mindset

Encouraging a growth mindset in children fosters a belief that intelligence and abilities can be developed through effort and perseverance. By emphasizing the power of “yet” (e.g., “I haven’t mastered it yet”) rather than fixed statements (e.g., “I can’t do it”), children learn to view challenges as opportunities for growth. This mindset shift instills resilience, determination, and a sense of self-belief that fuels motivation.

Create a Supportive Learning Environment

A supportive learning environment is essential for boosting confidence and motivation. Teachers and tutors should foster a safe and inclusive space where children feel comfortable expressing their ideas, asking questions, and taking risks without fear of judgment. Encouraging collaboration, celebrating diversity, and promoting positive interactions among peers can contribute to a supportive and motivating atmosphere.

Set Realistic Goals and Tracking Progress

Setting realistic, attainable goals helps children experience a sense of accomplishment and progress. Teachers, parents, and tutors can work together to set both short-term and long-term goals with children, breaking them down into manageable steps. Regularly reviewing and tracking progress reinforces the child’s motivation and confidence as they witness their growth over time.

Setting realistic goals means knowing whether your child is the right physical and mental age for their grade.

Encourage Extracurricular Activities

Participating in extracurricular activities outside of the classroom can have a positive impact on a child’s confidence and motivation. Whether it’s sports, arts, or clubs, these activities provide opportunities for children to explore their passions, develop new skills, build relationships, and experience success in non-academic domains. The confidence gained in these activities often translates into the classroom as well.

Foster a Love for Learning

When children find joy and fulfillment in the learning process, their confidence and motivation naturally flourish. Teachers and tutors can create engaging and interactive lessons that cater to different learning styles, incorporate hands-on activities, and connect the curriculum to real-world contexts. By nurturing curiosity, instilling a love for learning, and making education meaningful, children become more self-motivated to pursue knowledge and reach their full potential.

By implementing these strategies, parents, teachers, and tutors can play a vital role in boosting confidence and motivation in school-going children. Empowering children with belief in their abilities and fostering a positive mindset creates a solid foundation for academic success and personal growth.

Stay well, inside and out

Waheeda, a.k.a Waydi

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