For children, learning new concepts and experiencing the world around them comes naturally through observing, listening, and exploring. From the many questions they ask to the imaginary games they play, children are constantly learning. As they grow, this natural love of learning can be squashed if not fostered and encouraged in a loving environment. At Aspire Charter Academy, we want your child to develop a love of learning so they can make the most of their education and find new interests and passions in and out of the classroom.
Here are four strategies to foster a love of learning in your child:
- Engage your child.
After school, ask your children about their day, showing a genuine interest in the subjects and activities in which they participated. This strategy will make them feel proud of their new knowledge and excited to learn the next great thing. Ask for specific details and avoid questions that can only be answered with a yes or no. They will be able to think about the content they learned more deeply when they are given the chance to explain it to you. Showing curiosity about their day and their learning while promoting a positive attitude will brighten your child’s education.
- Make learning fun by finding their interests.
Figure out what your child’s passions are and focus in on them. When they are pursuing their interests in any environment, they have fun learning. This strategy can be as simple as using their toys like Legos or animals to learn or expanding on a talent they have. Seek out opportunities for your students to use their new found skills and interests. Fostering an exciting learning atmosphere enhances learning abilities.
- Read aloud regularly.
Reading aloud with your children gives them the time to just sit, relax, and soak in a good story. Some children also like to draw, color, or play quietly while they listen. Not only is this a great bonding experience, but it also teaches your children to love stories and reading which results in a love of learning. They will look forward to the next story, develop an interest in the people and concepts explored in the books, and express a desire to learn more. If family life feels too busy, start with 10 minutes a day or every other day. Even 10 minutes a day will give you 60 hours of reading aloud by the end of the year! Audiobooks in the car or at home while doing chores is a great way to experience books while tending to household needs. Developing this habit will establish meaningful connections with your family.
- Avoid pressure.
When children feel pressured to learn new material, it becomes difficult to grasp, making learning stressful instead of delightful. When your child is having trouble with a certain subject, show support both academically and emotionally. Collaborate together on a page, project, or experiment. Be willing to try a different way to learn a concept. Allow for breaks and movement. Something as simple as providing tea, hot chocolate, or any other favorite drink along with yummy snacks while doing homework can create a relaxed atmosphere. Listen and talk to your children so that both of you can figure out the problem and work together to find a solution, communicating the idea that you are on their side.
Young children’s education is vitally important. They are in a developmental learning stage of their lives that is especially significant. Because of this fact, we want children to have a joy for learning. When they are in an environment that teaches them to love learning, gaining new knowledge becomes easier. Fostering positive learning enlightens their minds and keeps their sense of wonder as they grow older.
