As I pondered these questions, the only word that came to mind was sincerity. Sure at the end of year, we can do the group motivation strategies, such as pep rallies and assemblies. We could give out motivational trinkets and gifts. We can also feed them, and that also makes all kids feel really good. But I remind myself what motivates kids more than anything is a meaningful relationship, and what builds relationships more than anything are sincere words of appreciation and praise.
7 Sentence Stems to Motivate All Kids...
In addition to all of the positive things we do for kids, they need to hear, see and feel our belief in them. To help strengthen student motivation, I have included these 7 Sentence Stems for educators to use when finding the right words to use to praise their students.
- I really appreciate how much you have (describe behavior or attribute that led to growth)...
- At the beginning of the year, you (insert deficiency), but now you have (insert strength).
- I like how much you have grown at...
- The best thing about your work ethic is...
- Don’t forget that you are most successful when you (insert attribute or strategy)
- I have seen your best work when you (insert best work ethic)...
- I am so proud of you this year because (insert best example of overcoming odds)...
Everyone loves a pep rally or group motivator, but those things lose their effect with each passing day. Extrinsic motivators work temporarily, but intrinsic motivation works much longer. Kids won’t always remember what you taught them, but they will remember what you said and will always remember how you made them feel. If we want all kids to be intrinsically motivated, we must commit to saying personal words to students that will penetrate their hearts in a positive and ultimately productive manner.
Best of luck as you finish the year strong.
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