Autism Soccer: The Power of Positivity in Kids

When children are positive, they can reach their goals.

One of the things that keeps people going is motivation and this is especially true for kids with special needs. They are often self-critical and can get frustrated by not reaching the goals they set themselves or menial tasks they wish to do. That’s when grown-ups need to encourage them to keep trying and to motivate them in a creative way to make sure they feel confident and happy and positivity is key to achieve this. Positivity is one of the main forces behind their desire to try something new because it makes them feel they are safe. It also paints the best case scenario and makes them feel assured that they are loved by the ones around them.

How can you motivate them?

Kids are much like you, they need to have the correct motivation in order to try their best to reach their goals. This means you need to find something that will keep them engaged throughout the whole process, and that proves to be more rewarding than overcoming the setbacks they could encounter. Many decide to use food as the main reward system, and that’s counter-productive. Sometimes, you can not find that particular cookie they love, which means they will not be rewarded with what they know and like if they do something good that day. Do you see the problem here? Find elements that will be more fulfilling and incredible for their routines, like a trip to a place they like, or something equally physically pleasing. Find something intangible your kid loves and use that as a way to encourage their effort.

When to motivate them?

Some people believe that motivation only comes when they do something particularly rewarding, but this can’t be more wrong. You need to make sure to let your kid know they are loved every day, and that every single effort they do for any task they endeavor is appreciated by you and the ones who care about them. It is a constant and ongoing job, that has to be performed day after day and it can be done through something as small as a happy phrase: “Great job!” or “You are doing amazing!” are a few of the ones you could use to make them feel motivated and positive about their efforts.

Be positive around your child, let them know you are always looking at the bright side, regardless of the difficulties that could arise. This behavior is contagious, and you’ll see incredible results in the way they carry themselves throughout their lives. In Autism Soccer, positivity is one of the bases for their classes, and this is the reason why kids love to do sports in such a great environment.