Let’s talk about a real-world problem: Procrastination! How many adults have struggled w/ procrastination & yet, never were taught skills to mitigate the ‘Energy sucking bad habit’ of putting things off again and again? There are things you can do as an adult to decrease your #Procrastination; however this post is for ‘parent procrastinators’ who want their children to not suffer the same bad habit!
Let’s dive into an educational strategy with some additional insights!
💡Imagine you’re working with your young child, say 8-years-old. They often get lost in a sea of distractions when they should be doing a specific activity, as an example, homework. To help them, you set a clear goal: “Alright, kiddo, finish two pages of your math worksheet. After that, we can have a quick snack break.”
🙌🏼Why does this work like a charm? Well, young minds thrive on structure and rewards. They can see the finish line (those two pages), and the promise of a snack keeps them motivated. Plus, two pages seem much more manageable than the whole worksheet.
Now, let’s talk about a real-world problem this solves: “Procrastination Paralysis ” Many children put off doing assignments until the last minute, causing stress, anxiety & frustration for them and their parents. This clear goal-setting technique helps children break tasks into smaller, achievable chunks, making them less likely to procrastinate.
👉Shifting gears to a high schooler, where teenagers often wrestle with focus. Picture this: Your history teacher says, “Today, we’re diving into a big research project. Step one, pick your topic. Step two, outline your main points. Step three, start your research.”
Suddenly, those restless teens are engaged, knowing exactly what’s expected at each stage. This approach works because it breaks down a daunting task into manageable steps.
Now, let’s address a prevalent issue in high schools: “Project Panic.” Teens often feel overwhelmed by large assignments, leading to anxiety. But when parents can help guide them through clear, step-by-step goals, that panic subsides. Students become more confident and less stressed.
In summary, this technique isn’t just a teaching trick; it’s a lifeline for students of all ages. Use it at home to break down larger household chores into parts; give feedback & provide the next step. It’s about providing clear goals, breaking tasks into bite-sized pieces, and keeping your child on track. Say goodbye to procrastination puzzles and project panic — it’s time to ace getting stuff done! 🎓🌟
By: Dr Christine Powell; Education Therapist & ADHD Coach
