~ August Week 2
How to Stay Motivated During 11+ Preparation: A Guide for Parents and Students
Introduction
Preparing for the 11+ exams can be a challenging and sometimes overwhelming journey for both students and parents. The pressure to succeed, coupled with the demands of regular schoolwork, can lead to stress and dwindling motivation. However, staying motivated is key to achieving success in the 11+ exams. In this guide, we will explore 8 practical tips and tricks to help maintain that all-important motivation throughout the 11+ preparation process.
1. Set clear, achievable goals
For Students...
Setting clear and realistic goals is crucial for staying on track. Break down your preparation into bite-size, manageable milestones, such as mastering a particular topic or completing a set number of practice papers each week.
"Today, I will break down the topic of Fractions into; Equating fractions, simplifying fractions and adding fractions."
"This week I will complete 2 Engish practice papers and 2 Maths practice papers to supplement my lessons with Tutorie!"
Make sure to celebrate each achievement, no matter how small, as this will give you a sense of accomplishment and keep you motivated!
For Parents...
Help your child set these goals and track their progress. Encourage them to focus on personal growth rather than just the final outcome. Remind them that each step forward is victory, and support them in setting new goals once old ones are achieved.
2. Create a Balanced Study Schedule - Balance is key
For Students...
Consistency in 11+ preparation is key, but that doesn't mean you have to study all the time. Create a study schedule that balances work and play. Incorporate breaks and leisure activities to keep your your mind fresh and avoid burnout. Knowing that you have time to relax can actually make your study sessions more productive.
For Parents...
Work with your child to create an 11+ study schedule that works for them. Make sure it includes enough time for relaxation, hobbies, and family activities. A balanced routine will help your child stay motivated and avoid the exhaustion that can come from over-studying. Remember - Work smart, not hard (well... a little bit hard)!
3. Use Positive Reinforcement
For Students...
Reward yourself for the hard work you're putting in. Whether it's a treat after a study session or a fun activity planned at the end of the week, having something to look forward to can keep you motivated. Think of these rewards as milestones on you journey to 11+ success.
For Parents...
Positive reinforcement is powerful. Acknowledge your child's effort and progress regularly. This could be through verbal praise, a special treat, or even a simple family celebration. Your recognition can boost their confidence and encourage them to keep going.
4. Stay Connected with Peers
For Students...
Studying for the 11+ exams with friends or in a group can make preparation more enjoyable and less isolating. Share knowledge, discuss difficult topics, and motivate each other. Sometimes, knowing that others are going through the same process can make it feel less daunting. Who doesn't like a bit of healthy competition?
For Parents...
Encourage your child to connect with their peers. Attend study groups or social gatherings where they can interact with other students preparing for the 11+ exams. This sense of community can be a great motivator and reduce feelings of stress or anxiety.
Here at Tutorie, we have put together our 'Tutorie Together' community to help connect parents so we can grow together. 'Inclusiveness' is one of our core G-CHIP values (Growth | Confidence | Honesty | Inclusiveness | Patience) which we hold in a high regard.
5. Embrace a Growth Mindset
For Students...
Believe in your ability to improve and succeed. A growth mindset means understanding that intelligence and abilities can be developed through effort and learning. Instead of being discouraged by challenges, view them as opportunities to grow and learn.
For Parents...
Foster a growth mindset in your child by emphasising the value of effort and persistence over innate ability. Celebrate their hard work and progress, and help them see mistakes as learning opportunities rather than failures. This approach will help them stay motivated even when they face difficulties.
6. Keep the Bigger Picture in Mind
For Students...
Remember why you are preparing for the 11+ exams. Whether it’s the goal of attending a particular school, pursuing your interests, or achieving personal growth, keep that bigger picture in mind. This will help you push through the tougher times and stay focused on your goals.
For Parents...
Help your child keep perspective by discussing their long-term goals and dreams. Remind them of the opportunities that lie ahead and how their hard work now will open doors in the future. This can provide a powerful motivational boost, especially during periods of low energy or self-doubt. Focus on your goals...
7. Take Care of Your Well-being
For Students...
Your mind and body are your greatest tools in this 11+ preparation journey, so take care of them! Make sure you’re eating well, drinking plenty of water, getting enough sleep, and staying active. Physical health directly impacts mental clarity and motivation, so don’t neglect it.
For Parents...
Ensure your child is maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Encourage regular exercise, nutritious meals, and plenty of sleep. A well-rested and healthy child is more likely to stay motivated and perform well in their studies.
8. Visualise Success
For Students...
Visualisation can be a powerful motivator. Spend a few minutes each day picturing yourself on exam day, feeling confident and prepared. Imagine the satisfaction of achieving your goals. This mental rehearsal can build your confidence and keep you focused.
For Parents...
Guide your child through visualisation exercises, helping them to imagine their success in vivid detail. This not only boosts motivation but also reduces anxiety by making the process feel more familiar and achievable.
Final Thoughts: Motivation is a Journey, Not a Destination
Staying motivated during 11+ preparation is a continuous process that requires effort, support, and the right mindset. By setting achievable goals, balancing work with relaxation, and fostering a positive outlook, both students and parents can navigate this challenging period with confidence and determination. Remember, motivation isn’t just about reaching the destination—it’s about finding joy and satisfaction in the journey itself. With the right approach, you’ll not only be prepared for the 11+ exams but also equipped with valuable life skills that will benefit you long after the exams are over.
Quote of the day...
This quote is a great reminder for both parents and students preparing for the 11+ exams that confidence and belief in oneself are crucial to staying motivated and achieving success.
How Tutorie Can Help with Keeping Motivated
At Tutorie, our G-CHIP values are there to guide you...
Growth - Tutorie is all about growth, and not just academically; growing open-mindedness, growing confidence, and growing our community are all key to reaching our goals!
Confidence - Whether you are right or wrong, be confident in what you do and believe in yourself!
Honesty - Be honest with yourself about your strengths and weaknesses. Remember, not knowing something is okay, we can always work on it together!
Inclusiveness - Exams are a difficult time so it is important to stick together and create a community. You are never alone in this 11+ journey!
Patience - Take your time with everything you do. Do not panic. It is better to learn something properly than rush through it!
Check out our FREE resources by signing up to our mailing list at https://www.tutorie.co.uk/.
Join our 'Tutorie Together' Whatsapp community to stay in touch and create an inclusive, collaborative environment.
By following these tips and maintaining a positive, supportive environment, you can make the 11+ preparation journey a rewarding experience. Keep the focus on progress, celebrate the small wins, and most importantly, stay motivated!
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