Passion is a key element to sticking and succeeding with a chosen goal. When was the last time you were motivated to stick with something you didn’t care about? Igniting passion in your kids about an activity will be the engine that drives them to work hard and having it not feel like work at the same time. That means less complaints and whining, sound good? So, what can you do today? Take them to see or do something they’ve never done before. Check out a nature center or go to the library. These are free resources available in most communities. Many sports activities have free trial classes. For instance, check out martial arts classes, try gymnastics, and look into kids’ art or acting programs. For something different try a rock climbing gym, go-carts, take them skiing. You never know what sparks will ignite!
Another important element with encouraging new things is to try these activities with your child. This accomplishes two things. First, you have fun together which encourages bonding and a better overall relationship. Who doesn’t want that?! The second is that your child will see you trying something new. You are the biggest role model for your kids so they will learn a valuable lesson, that you are willing and able to put yourself out there and try something unfamiliar. Two birds with one stone!
Once you’re finished with the activity, ask them how it went. What did they like or dislike? Why did they feel that way? If they liked the activity, ask them if they would like to explore it further. For instance, many sports activities will have the first few classes at a discount price. Libraries have classes spanning several weekends. If they didn’t like it, you know that you can try something else. It’s not the activity that matters, it’s whether the spark of passion is ignited. Finally, make sure you ask if they liked that you did it with them? This will give you a powerful indication of how good your relationship is with your child.
