How can I motivate my child?

Motivation comes in different forms for different people.  Children are apt to take their cues from their parents, so if you have a healthy approach toward exercise and wellness, there is a greater likelihood is that your child will follow suit.  Institute a new Saturday morning bike riding ritual, put on some music and dance together or encourage your child to join you when you walk the dog.  Promote a positive environment where moving and staying active is the norm in your house, and your child will not want to miss out on the fun!

To motivate your child to exercise, it helps if you make it fun. Organize a scavenger hunt on a nature trail. Make a list of items for your child to point out on the trail such as a stick, a leaf, or bird. You can also organize a neighborhood treasure hunt and make a list of items to find connected to nutrition, fitness and/or health. You might also take your cues from him. What does he like to do?  Choose activities that incorporate those things. Maybe he idolizes a famous athlete. Make that work for you (and him) and suggest he practice and try out for his school's team. If you're at a loss of what to suggest, you might also ask your child what he would be interested in doing. Children like being involved in decision making. You might get a more positive response if you ask for his input. Good luck!   

Set reachable goals to encourage a child. When your child sees that he can actually reach a pre-set goal, this works wonders in keeping him motivated. Make the goals set for the child age-appropriate so that they can easily be attained. Setting the goals too high will cause the child to become frustrated, become discouraged and give up.

Encourage the child constantly. This area can never be overdone if looked at from this perspective: If your child knows that he will receive praise for his efforts or achievements, he is more likely to try harder.

Reinforce your child’s confidence level by telling him often that he can achieve his goals, whether they are large or small. This form of motivation applies well in sports-related activities. Constant encouragement to "hit the ball, you can do it," will eventually result in them actually hitting it!