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Teen and Tween College kids

Amanda - posted on 05/14/2009 ( 3 moms have responded )

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Hi Everyone I'm new here.

We have two sons (12 and 14) that have been taking classes at the local C.C for 5 (almost 6) years. When it comes to their college classes both are highly motivated (all A's so far), but when it comes to their regular course work here at home is like pulling teeth. My oldest does the bare minimum with his high school subjects (this just started happening this year) and I literally have to be right next to him or he just blows it all off. I'm at my wits end. They want to take college classes this summer ( Year 2 Mandarin , and 3D computer programming), but I'm thinking maybe I should make them cut back until they show more discipline with their other work (the less fun stuff as they call it). Any suggestions for motivation?

Thanks,
Amanda

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3 Comments

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Amber - posted on 08/10/2009

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i would make sure they understand the importance of not only their cc studies but their regular studies as well explain to them that if they are not applying them selves to their fullest in both work then they will not be able to attend the "fun" classes. make it their choice.

Rebekah - posted on 06/26/2009

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I'd be reluctant to take away the things that they enjoy because that could really backfire, with them continuing to do poorly on the other work and not having anything that motivates them at all. You mentioned the regular course work "at home" -- does that mean you are home schooling them? If so, I agree that you may need to tweak either the level or style of the curriculum to gain their interest. Or, it may be that they do well in the CC environment with an outside teacher that they want to please. Sometimes homeschooled kids (especially this age) have lost the desire to please mom and don't think it "counts" in the same way. I'd consider what the differences are between the CC courses and their other work and see what you might do to make them more similar. Or, it could just be that they are more interested in the subjects of the courses they are taking at the CC. I don't know there's much you or anyone could do to get me interested in math, for example. Best of luck in finding a solution.

Shara - posted on 06/18/2009

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II unfortunately do not have great motivation advice. However, I am wondering if your children are not challenged enough with their regular work and that is why they just don’t want to do it. Maybe they need more of a challenge. Another thing to consider is if there are other ways of going about the regular work that would make it more interesting to them. Such as projects and more self guided learning.



I wish you the best of luck!

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