Kids aren’t naturally self-motivated. When your child’s mindset isn’t in the right place, even the most fun activities can be a struggle to get to. Here are some strategies to help you get your child to class.

1 Be attentive to what your child is doing the moment they’re supposed to get ready for class. Are they playing or having fun with a friend? Then be ready for a battle. Plan ahead by having your child complete a chore or task around 10 to 15 minutes before getting ready for class.

2 Be attentive to your own projection of emotions as you get your child ready for class. Being stressed, rushed, or aggravated in any way will project these emotions onto your child. Try to project positive and upbeat energy instead.

child attending class

3 Be attentive to how you respond to your child’s overall performance after class. If you express too much emphasis on what they did wrong, those negative feelings will carry over. Limit criticism and focus more on productive conversations after class.

4 Be intentional with your goals by communicating with your child’s instructors. The goal is to foster motivation. Let the instructors know about your struggles so they can better motivate your child before, during, and after class. Don’t be afraid to ask for support!

kids martial arts class

5Prompt motivation by rewarding your child. Remember that children’s brains are still growing, and most of their development comes from positive stimulation and experiences. Encourage the behaviour you would like to see in your child when going to class and then set an attainable number of classes they must attend with this behaviour.

Be sure to include a desirable reward for doing so. For example, grab ice cream on the way home if they attend the next three classes with appropriate behaviour.

These strategies aren’t difficult, but they’re often overlooked. As parents, we get caught up in the daily grind, so we sometimes forget that situations like these require attentive and intentional parenting. I hope these tips help you and your child get ready for class. Good luck!