From Our Inbox: Children and Motivation

Hi Kathy,

I have enjoyed your website and Encouraging Eager Hands Course. I have 5
children, the oldest is a daughter who is 9. She loves to help in the
kitchen and can pretty well prepare many meals on her own. We are working on
both our attitudes on work, but my question is in regards to crafting. I
have given her the supplies and shown her how to make some needlepoint
canvas crafts for Christmas gifts. She does well on it, but lacks the
motivation to work on them on her own time. I feel I have to constantly stay
on her to work on them. She says she enjoys it, but I'm not sure what to do.
Keep "prodding" her or find another craft? We make most of our Christmas
gifts here, but I feel that at her age she should take more responsibility
for making sure she is getting things done as I am busy working on things
myself for gifts.
Your input is greatly appreciated.
Stephenie

With permission I am posting my reply to Stephenie because I think this is a common problem, knowing just how much to expect. )

Stephenie,

You sound so much like me! ;o) Been there and done that!

First let me say, 9 is still pretty young. Training is a process and it
sounds like you are doing a good job so far. Some parents have 19 year
olds that don't have a clue how to cook anything! Just keep at it, slow
and steady…consistency and patience are the keys.
As far as being motivated with projects, just keep offering her ideas and
new skills. Sometimes it is having a purpose that is dear to them that is
the best motivator.

I have 1 daughter that starts 20 projects (no exaggeration) and might
finish a few. The other daughter starts one and takes her time until it is
finished. My point being, everyone is different. I am more concerned about
them knowing HOW to do something than I am them 'being busy'. She is still
young, keep prodding/encouraging her, but not demanding. Remember your
relationship is more important than a craft. Make it purposeful and
enjoyable when you can. She'll come along.

As far as Christmas, remind her if she wants to give something to the
special people in her life she'll have to plan ahead so she can give it
her best efforts. Another idea, schedule a time slot into her day, such as
from 1-3 is craft time? Or Fridays is craft/gift time. Make it a priority
like math? ;o)

Hope this helps some.

Bio
Latest Posts

Kathy

writer, video producer, wife and mother at Teaching Good Things

Titus 2:3 says that we are to be "...teachers of good things...". We believe that part of these good things are practical skills that we all need in every day life to care for our family and neighbors. One of our primary responsibilities as parents is equip our children with the skills and tools to one day be productive, well rounded adults. Children need to be exposed to many different areas of work. Not only should they know how to work, but they should want to work. May the favor of the Lord our God rest upon us; establish the work of our hands for us- yes, establish the work of our hands. Psalm 90:17