PARENT SUPPORT MAY BE YOUR CHILD'S GREATEST MOTIVATOR OF ALL

Studies show that positive adult influence is critical to kids’ success.
Kids who have healthy adult role models:

Feel more secure and optimistic than kids with no role models.
Are less likely to cheat on tests.
Are more likely to feel happy.
Are more likely to believe in their own future success.
Are nine times more likely than other kids to earn straight A’s.

What’s the secret to being a solid role model for your preteen? There isn’t one. Instead, there’s a list of common sense things you can do to keep your preteen motivated and feeling loved.

Not making snap judgments about his character. Take time to get to know who he really is and what makes him tick.
Singing his praises. Preteens get a bum rap; they’re sometimes seen as troublemakers. Don’t let that perception stand. When your child does something terrific, say so!
Listening to him. Don’t dismiss your preteen’s opinions because he’s “just a kid.” Spend time together and pay attention when he tells you something. This may be the biggest motivator of all.

http://www.tcpress.com Source: : Anthony W. Jackson, P. Gayle Andrews, Holly Holland and Priscilla Pardini, Making the Most of Middle School: A Field Guide for Parents and Others, (Teachers College Press),. Reprinted with permission The Parent Institute (c) 2007