Home School Heartbeat Radio Program

Does your teenage son do his schoolwork in slow motion? Michael Farris discusses motivating teenage boys to work quickly and diligently on today's Home School Heartbeat.

Mike Farris:


Many home school moms report that their teenage sons get bogged down when they begin high school work.


Barring any real learning disabilities, these generally cooperative kids struggle because they've lost sight of a realistic goal. With so much to accomplish, they're overwhelmed. If your son just can't seem to finish his work, you know you've got a plodder in the house.


Mom, you may think, "shouldn't this boy who looks like a man, be able to work like one, independently and without so much prodding?"


To help him along, here's one suggestion. With your son, develop specific assignments for what he will read, test or produce each day, in each subject. In other words, set realistic goals. At the end of the week have him report to Dad. Gentlemen, believe me, your wife needs your support, and your son needs your accountability. Make sure your son meets his goals. Weekends need to be used to catch up on any unfinished business. Persevere in this approach for several months to establish the habit of planning and completing work.


Finishing on time is a great reward. One mom told me that her son was so happy that he was finally finishing on time, he did even more work to finish sooner! Persevere, Mom and Dad. Your efforts will help your son become a faithful and diligent worker. I'm Mike Farris.