Sharing Good Practice
5 THINGS PARENTS CAN DO TO INSTILL
A LOVE OF LEARNING IN THEIR CHILDREN
By Cynthia Shambry
4. Hands-on
P
arents play an important role
in instilling a love of learning
in their children and ensuring
that it continues throughout
their children’s lives. More than ever,
it is critical for parents to inspire their
children early in life. Naturally, home is
the first place where learning begins to
take shape. When children become of
school age, it becomes vital for parents
to help their child to apply the learning,
from the classroom, to the real-world.
This allows, learning to become
more relevant. When children make
connections and see the relationship
between prior learning and something
new, while having fun, the love of
learning will progress. For parents
who find the task of instilling a love
for learning in their children daunting,
here are five simple steps to get you
started:
1. Start Early
Although there’s some debate about
how early, is too early to teach a child
to read, many agree as early as in the
womb. However, it’s an amazing thing
to witness a toddler who can identify
letters, even more, to hear them make
the corresponding sounds. Children at
this stage in life are more than capable
of identifying letters, numbers and
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shapes. It is probable for a child to
learn to read early, when given this
head start. Society has been moving
towards this trend for some time now.
Preparing young children to become
what is known as an early learner.
2. Observe
Be observant of their interests. The
hook is easier when they’re already
interested. Even if you are introducing
a difficult topic or subject, you can
learn so much from observing your
child’s learning patterns. If you can
relate that topic to their interest they
could very well make the connections
and stay engaged.
3. Model
Lead by example! Reveal to your child
your own interests and show them
your love for learning. Allow time for
discussion, questions and answers.
When you don’t know- don’t fake
it. Take that time to find the answer
together. Modeling is a powerful
strategy!
Class Time
Play educational games, make it
fun! Today, most children know
how to navigate technologies, they
can operate the latest and greatest
devices. These devices are equipped
with many educational games and
tools to teach your children many
skills. However, there’s more to be
said about interacting and engaging
with hands-on activities. For example,
project-based learning, teaches many
21st century skills. Skills our children
need to compete in society today.
These projects promote collaboration,
sharing ideas, learning how to
develop plans, and then take action.
Many children love project-based
learning. Doing educational projects
at home, not only helps your children
academically, but it serves as a way of
bonding with your children.
5. Reinforce
Establish a routine, create an activity
calendar, and plan your activities
ahead to insure you achieve your
desired outcome. Revisit and reteach
when necessary.
Keep in mind, children do well with
consistency, and high expectations.
Also, provide a designated space for
them to learn at home. Ensure they
have resources and tools to aid their
learning. Allow them a chance to
explore, to discover, ask questions and
seek answers for themselves. This could
prove to be very powerful in nurturing
their love for learning. Parents who
have high expectations and begin
early, while paying close attention to
what their children are attracted to, will
find it easier to guide their learning.
Even more, if parents can show their
children how to apply new information,
learn new skills, and have fun, they will
be making a very valuable investment
in their children’s future.
Cynthia Shambry is a highly skilled certified teacher in the Western Region of
Abu Dhabi. She earned a Master's of Education in 2009. Additionally, she's
certified in Early Childhood & Elementary Education.