A common misconception is that learning should be limited to the classroom. While school plays a major role in a child’s educational life, intellectual, social and emotional growth is fully nurtured at home. Here are several ways that parents can help their children discover the joy of learning.
Children feel less motivated when they are being forced to learn. A more effective approach is to allow your child to have control over their own learning process . Do not decide for them, teach them to choose wisely. For example, to improve their reading skills, let them pick a book of their choice. If they have a written assignment, make them choose the topic to write about. When it comes to learning new skills, it is recommended that children have input into their educational choices. The more they get to decide with respect to their learning process, the more engaged and motivated will they become.
If your child has a need to express his opinion, let him do so. Listen thoughtfully to his concerns, likes and dislikes to better understand how you can guide him towards success. Even if you disagree with your child’s opinion, make sure to show him that his voice matters and that he can express himself with honesty without feeling judged, discouraged or ignored. By doing so, you’re encouraging your child to be fully engage in his learning process.
The most efficient method of learning is by being involved in the subject of their interest. Hence, when it comes to children, they learn best by engaging in the areas and subjects that fascinate them. Encouraging kids to explore new, interesting topics will help him become a good learner. If he likes Minecraft, make him do a presentation on tactical strategies he uses, then make him read interesting articles on the subject. Challenge him with analytical questions to make him think deeper about his interest.
Every student has a different style of learning. Some are passive learners, while others prefer active learning. There isn’t a right or wrong way to learn, you just got to adapt to your student’s preferred style. Using techniques that improve his quality of learning surely pays off in the long term. Some children might learn best using visual techniques, others like logical approaches. No matter which method it is, make sure that it suits your child and his personality.
We sure know that performance is important, but focusing on the learning process is more important than grades. Instead of asking your child how much he got on his math test, let him explain some new concepts he learned in math today. Make your children understand that failure is not a bad thing and shouldn’t be discouraging. As a matter of fact, failing is a learning experience in its own and does not count towards ranking your child’s performance.
Students tend to focus better when they’re organized, so it’s good to teach them organizational skills at an early age. Schools usually supply students with a homework folder and an assignment book. Make sure to check those regularly to help your child stay on track with their assignments and tests. Get your child a calendar to help them meet deadlines, and keep a special folder for graded projects so they don’t toss them around. To-do lists can effectively teach students how to prioritize their tasks and make them not feel overwhelmed.
A child performs better when parents show them recognition and celebrate their achievements. To learn and challenge themselves students constantly need positive reinforcement at home, from their tutors and at school. Offer them a gift for finishing a difficult project; take them to a fun place when they do well on a math test. Giving them rewards is a good tool for motivating your child.
For many parents it can be hard to help their child with their assignments. Children tend to listen less to their parents than to a coach or a tutor. Often times, kids don’t want their parents to play a role in their educational life. Studies show that students prefer to get advice and support from a tutor, who is a bridge between the school and the family. Finding the right tutor that matches your child’s learning style and personality can enhance the learning process faster with better results. When choosing a tutor, make your child try a session and express his opinion about the lesson, to ensure that he gets to work with the most suitable tutor.
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David is history tutor at Wiziya, from British Columbia, Canada. He has an M.A. with honors. From McGill University, and is specialized in world history. His learning approach is unique – he let’s the students find the answers to their questions by involving them actively in the subject. He teaches K-12 students at all levels. To learn more about David, check out his profile page.
Studies show that feeling accomplished is an important factor in students’ performance and wellbeing. Success is not defined in academic results, but in one’s own personal achievement.
