Unlocking Motivation: How to Help Your Son Find His Spark

Is your son pulling away, shutting down, or showing little interest in school or chores? You’re not alone — and there is a way forward. In this third episode of our special 3-part ON BOYS series, we focus on how to foster intrinsic (inner) motivation in boys. Because yes, it’s in there — even when it feels completely buried. We’ll help you understand the difference between intrinsic and extrinsic motivation, and why both matter. You’ll hear real-world examples from our own lives and families, plus honest talk about what doesn’t work. (Spoiler: there’s no magic phrase that makes a boy suddenly say, “Sure, I’d love to do my homework!”). Photo By: Kaboompics.com via Pexels Takeaways: Inner motivation is the key to lasting engagement. External rewards (ice cream, screen time, earrings!) can work in the short term — even for adults. Understanding your son’s developmental stage helps you support him more effectively. Motivation-building strategies will look different for each child — even within the same family. Parents can boost motivation by aligning with boys’ goals and interests. his episode is part of our lead-up to the Boost Boys’ Motivation interactive class: 3 live sessions in May 2025 with real-time Q&A, strategies, support & community. Register now at boysalive.com/boost Use coupon code ONBOYS to save $50 (just $99 for all three sessions!) If you’ve ever wanted to jump into the conversation with us — this is your chance. Links we mentioned (or should have) in this episode: Empowering Boys & Dyslexic Learners — ON BOYS episode How Your Anxiety is Sabotaging Your Son’s Motivation — ON BOYS episode Boost Boys’ Motivation — ON BOYS episode Advertising Inquiries: Privacy & Opt-Out:

You can listen to Unlocking Motivation: How to Help Your Son Find His Spark online on Radio and Podcast. Open the player on this page to stream the available audio.

Unlocking Motivation: How to Help Your Son Find His Spark is an episode from ON BOYS Podcast by Janet Allison, Jennifer LW Fink.

This episode is 10:33 long.

This episode was published on May 1, 2025.

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