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In the insightful article "Student Spring Fever? Tips to Stay Motivated at the End of the School Year" published on April 1, 2024, by Ann Dolin, educators and parents are provided with practical advice on how to maintain student motivation as the academic year draws to a close. Recognizing the unique challenges that the final quarter presents, especially for students with ADHD, Dolin compares this period to the last leg of a race where the sight of the finish line can ironically lead to a decrease in effort and motivation. This phase is crucial, she argues, because it is often packed with cumulative exams, standardized testing, final projects, and a host of other assignments.
Dolin offers several strategies to combat the waning motivation commonly observed after spring break:
1. **Planning Ahead**: Emphasizing the importance of foresight, Dolin suggests setting aside time weekly, often Sunday nights, for families to plan the upcoming week. This practice helps in breaking down larger projects into manageable tasks, thereby reducing last-minute stress and panic.
2. **Visual Reminders**: To move away from the counterproductive role of a nagging parent, the article recommends using sticky notes or checklists as visual cues for students. These reminders can be strategically placed in study areas or by the front door to ensure they are seen and acted upon.
3. **Consistent Routines and Open Communication**: Dolin notes a common tendency among parents to disengage towards the end of the school year, which can mirror in their children’s attitudes towards schoolwork. She advocates for maintaining the routines established at the beginning of the year and focusing on consistent communication and structure.
4. **Immediate Rewards**: Instead of promising long-term rewards for future success, which may not effectively motivate students, Dolin advises offering smaller, more immediate rewards for completing specific tasks. This approach aligns rewards closely with desired behaviors, making them more effective motivators.
5. **Incorporate Exercise and Play**: Acknowledging the benefits of physical activity on focus and motivation, Dolin suggests incorporating exercise into students' routines, especially before homework. Outdoor activities and free play can not only help combat spring fever but also improve concentration for subsequent learning tasks.
By implementing these strategies, educators and parents can help students navigate the challenging final quarter of the school year. The goal is to maintain engagement and motivation, ensuring students finish strong and maximize their academic potential. Dolin's article serves as a valuable resource for those looking to support their students through this critical period, offering evidence-based tips that promise to boost motivation and academic performance.
Source: Ann Dolin, "Student Spring Fever? Tips to Stay Motivated at the End of the School Year," April 1, 2024.
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