As it's one of the hottest weeks of the year, studying for the 11+ exams is the last thing that most children want to do.

This is especially true of 11+ students who would much prefer to be relaxing and playing outside rather than studying for one of the most important exams of their life.

For parents, it can be incredibly difficult (and sometimes even impossible) to motivate your child to study during these warm summer months.

Even the slightest attempt to encourage them to pick up a book can result in hours of screaming and moaning.

Quite simply, it can be an incredibly frustrating time especially when you're fully aware of how close by your child's 11+ exam is.

Nonetheless, getting your little one to be motivated enough to study isn't impossible and it can actually be an easy process if you follow these 3 steps.

Step 1.

Be sympathetic. Think back to your childhood and how much you enjoyed playing in the glistening sun. Those were incredible days that have lifelong memories.

Although it's natural and normal to want to scream at your child and beg them to study during this period of time, try to be understanding and talk to them in a way that shows that you acknowledge their frustrations.

Step 2.

Act like a parent, think like a child.

One of the smartest ways to deal with a child's lack of academic motivation is to think like not just any child, but your own.

What motivates your child?

What are there passions/interests?

Which activities inspire them?

Make a mental note of your answers to these questions and begin embedding some of your child's biggest passions into their study periods.

There are several ways to do this.

For instance, you could tell your child that for every hour of 11+ practice that they do, they'll receive 15 minutes of time towards an activity that they love most.

You could also consider incorporating their passions into their studies, for instance, use football to teach creative writing (yes, it's possible - we do this all the time during our 11+ courses)

Now this brings me to the final step (and my personal favourite).

Step 3.

Use the "jam jar technique."

What's that?

The jam jar technique encourages you to think like your child and pay attention to the one thing that they've dreamt of doing or receiving.

For instance, it could be a trip to Disney Land, a new digital tablet or the latest gadget.

Next, grab an empty sweet or jam jar and tell your child that for every hour they dedicate towards their 11+ studies, you'll place a marble in the jar, once the jar is filled they'll be able to get that dream prize/gift.

The reason why this works so well is because it encourages your child to study without stating that they'll only be rewarded if they pass the 11+.

It rewards them for working hard and acknowledges their efforts in a positive way.

Now that you've learnt three great ways to prepare your child for the exam, share this post on Twitter, LinkedIn or Facebook so that other parents can be inspired.

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