'Children are like sunshine. They light up your life and make you happy.' Do you agree? If your answer is ‘yes', you are lucky. If the answer is ‘no', it is time to make a change. With a little bit of motivation and guidance we can do wonders. Before you start motivating your kids try to understand yourself. You want your child to be the best. Best in studies, best in sports & in any other activity you like. Unfortunately if your child is not that keen you become miserable. Is it good? Do you really think a demotivated parent can motivate a child???? I'm afraid you will have to motivate yourself first before you worry about your kid. Tell yourself that children are children. They have no idea about this world. Once you teach them what is good or what is bad and what is necessary & what is unnecessary they will change with time and of course with a little bit of motivation & guidance. Have a smile on your face or else you will scare them away. Sometimes a kind word and a nod can do wonders. If you follow the given lessons here carefully you will be able to make a change. Good luck!!!!

Observe your kids. Try to understand them. Their likes & dislikes, ambitions in life, hobbies, friends & anything special. Try to recall your childhood (if possible) & make an attempt to understand & respect their point of view even if you find it rather foolish

Be a good friend.

• Get them to talk on any topic. Ask open ended questions that will help you to understand them.
• Find time to listen. It can be irritating, boring. But DON"T SHOW.....( Not showing does not mean that you should decieve them by telling that you enjoy what you hear)
• Look directly into the eyes & show that you can understand even if you don't ( be a wise listener)
• If you hear something you don't agree DO NOT tell directly that you can't agree. ( that does not mean you should agree to everything to decieve them)
• Give some hints to make them understand ( e.g. don't you think it is better....)

Praise your child's achievements. If you can't find any good get them to do something and commend. Praise lavishly when ever you notice good qualities. Words to admire, a smile or a nod work most of the time. You can also select a gift to delight him/her once in a way.

If you find your kids doing something bad, be firm. Tell directly, kindly that it is wrong. Try to explain why. If you find them repeating the mistake you will have to give a small punishment (NOT corporal)

E.g.

(1)You can lock the tv/computer room for a day (you can decide the no. of days depending on the fault)

(2)Not allowing them to play or any other activity they enjoy for a day

They are observing you. Be on your best behavior bacause they will try to imitate you. Observe manners and do good. Practice empathy. (I found the above video at youtube and wanted to share this with you to make you understand something valuable)

DON'Ts

* Do not make negative comments. (E.g. you are worthless or foolish)- they will loose self confidence

* Do not compare them with others - each child is unique just like flowers. Fragile & innocent (at least most of them)

Thanks for taking the time to read. Feel free to ask if you find anything confusing.

(I must thank http://www.freerangestock.com/ for the photos)