Motivation is the key to everything in life, right?  Take it from someone who is searching for the motivation to go to the gym on a semi-regular basis.

It's no different for children and learning.  Whether they are learning to talk, walk or drive, your children want to know "What's in it for me?"  Watch what your kids do and say.  What holds their attention, makes them laugh. What do they do without being told?

Then, find a way to tie that thing to the skill you are teaching. If your child likes movement play, don't try to teach her about animals by doing a puzzle.  Go outside and chase sown some squirrels.  If your child collects rocks, teach addition by counting his rock collection.

Some kids with special needs don't let you know right away what motivates them.  Some might have a small number of activities they enjoy.  But, I have never met a child who wasn't motivated by something. Whatever that is, it is essential that you find it, if you want to help your child learn something new.

What motivates your children to learn something new?