Show Your Elementary Schooler the Effects of Persistence

posted by Mrs. Davis on Tuesday, January 3rd, 2012

It’s wonderful for kids to be talented and smart, but research shows it’s just as important to be persistent.  Pushing forward-even when it’s tough-is a key to success.  Whether your child is naturally persistent or gives up easily it helps to:

• Break big goals into small parts.  If your child is determined to get an A in math, support him by discussing steps.  How exactly will he reach his goal? Help him develop a reasonable plan.
• Enjoy the process. Sure it feels great to see an A on a report card, but it also feels great to study hard and do well on a test, quiz or project.  Even better, it feels great to learn! Talk with your child about his accomplishments and what makes them worth while.
• Discuss persistence.  How has persistence already helped your child? Maybe he learned to ride a bike or play an instrument.  What new challenge can he tackle now?
• Compliment your child’s hard work-not just the end results.  If he falls short of a goal, that’s ok, as long as he tried.

Source: C. Jett, “Developing Persistence in children: A Guide for Parents.” Self Growth.com,www.selfgrowth.com/articles/developing-persisence-in-children-guide –for-parents