Prepared: Summary

https://preparedparents.org/

Real-world and project-based learning:

seek out opportunities to engage your child's opinion and participation. e.g.

Self-direction learning

make the self-directed cycle part of your everyday life

e.g. cook dinner, plan for the family activity

Teach the five power behaviors of a self-directed learner

call these out when you see them in your child and ask your child to point them out in others

Effective goal-setting (SMART)

specific, measurable, actionable, realistic, time-bound

The goals should matter to them so that their motivation is internal, not external
help them by talking through their plan: what potential obstacles might arise, how they might get past those obstacles
check-in with them regularly to offer help
model goal-setting yourself. verbalize why it meets a SMART goal criteria when set up a goal

Remember that skill development is lumpy

Reflection through mentoring

Mentor; don't direct

give feedback and guidance without giving answers directly
ask questions that help your child reflect on what they want, who they are, what they care about, how they feel, and what they should do as a result

Focus on "ing"

instead of asking "what do you want to be?", ask questions that get to underlying interests. Ask questions like "what do you like doing?" "what part of that do you like most?"
help your child figure out what they like, e.g. creating, talking, performing, or problem-solving. This helps them better know themselves

Asking the right questions to help kids solve interpersonal conflict

what do you want from this situation?
what emotions do you have
what behaviors are you exhibiting
what is working or not working, why
put yourself in the other person's shoes: what do you think their perspective is
what role can you play in getting to your desired outcome
is there anything you need to do to make the relationship right?

Readings