How do you encourage students to practice?
For teachers and caregivers
You can’t.
Motivation comes from within. Nobody can make anyone do anything.
Think of it like a seed.
You can’t make a seed grow.
No matter what you say, how you yell, what dance you do, you are never going to make that seed grow.
However.
You can manage conditions that give the best chance for growth.
You can provide water and plant food. You can make sure you plant in a spot that provides that right sunlight. You can even talk to your plants and play music (!) to help them grow.
SAME.
Your students are seeds.
You can’t make them do anything.
But you can provide support, laughter, music, solid information, anecdotes, references, resources, hydration, a listening ear, encouragement, compliments, preparation, and timeliness.
After that, you’ve done your best.
Now, allow your student to their best.
