You have probably heard that kids are like sponges: They absorb everything. They are always paying attention to the world around them and want to know more. Utilize their natural interest and curiosity to your advantage by incorporating unique learning opportunities into your daily lives.
Make learning fun.
Everyone learns at a different pace. Sometimes it is in a rigorous and structured classroom, and other times it is in a cozy backyard tent at home. Children have the capacity to learn well in a variety of environments, but making learning fun is great for everyone involved.
Make some new memories with your kids and educate them in the process by introducing interesting and positive learning activities into their learning routine. Show them how curiosity can spark questions that lead to exploration and experimentation, and how finding out a new fact can be fascinating instead of boring.
Through both unique and everyday activities, you and your kids can learn more about how things work and the world around you. And, if you conduct an experiment together or attempt to make a popsicle stick airplane that never gets off the ground, talk about the fun you had building it and what you learned from it instead of focusing on the negative. Learning is everywhere.
Social-emotional learning is important, too!
There is a reason that many PBS children’s shows resonate with kids beyond the cute creatures and fun animation. This type of programming offers social and emotional skills that bring a name to how kids feel and help them understand different ways of relating to the world around them. Regardless of whether or not your child has difficulty making connections with others or understanding how someone else feels, it is helpful to discuss emotions and social cues as they become relevant and as needed.
To illustrate, if your child sees another student acting out in class, take a few moments to discuss why they might have taken those actions and what they could do instead. These conversations will help your child to understand others while learning how to regulate their own emotions should a similar circumstance or feeling occur in their lives.
Follow up an “I don’t know” with a “But, let’s find out” statement.
It is perfectly okay that you may not have all the answers to the questions your children ask of you. You never will. Trying to know everything because you think you should, as the adult in the room, may lead to a sense of insecurity in your child because they think you know everything and they should, too.
Show your kids that not knowing something is a way to express honesty and vulnerability in saying that you do not have certain information, while being brave and bold by saying that you will find out. This will serve them now and in the future. When you do not have an answer, sit down together and look it up online. Show them how to find things if they do not already know, and discuss trusted websites, too. Talk about what you learn and how interesting it is to move beyond what you don’t know into the world of information and knowledge.
Find more structured learning opportunities.
If your child expresses an interest in a specific topic that moves beyond what you can teach them, or they really want to learn more, consider signing them up for classes. If they are curious about the violin, for example, and teaching a string instrument is not in your wheelhouse, look for local teachers to take the lead.
Having teachers and guides beyond yourself and their regular school year educators is valuable. Your kids can learn more specialized skills from experts in their respective fields, and interact with other personalities for a more well-rounded perspective and approach to learning. This learning can be anything from computer classes to painting and everything in between.
Remember that physical education is education.
When it comes to physical education, leading by example is a great way to go. Show your family how you get up and move your body every day without feeling guilt or shame for missing a day. Model different ways to be active and invite your kids to join you. If you have not yet had the joy of trying to do an exercise video or streaming a class with your kids, you are missing out. Watching them attempt the moves and choreography for the first time will certainly bring on the laughs.
Talk with your kids about the benefits that physical fitness can have not only on their bodies, but on their minds as well. Running around the yard while they are in elementary school will help them get the wiggles out before going to school and after a long day of sitting still. Going out for a run when they are in college can give them clarity and a chance to clear their minds. Healthy habits start early, and you can be their teacher.
Financial literacy can start at any age.
Money is a loaded topic for many adults. If you are struggling or are uncomfortable talking about your financial situation, know that it is important to teach your kids about financial literacy, regardless of where you are in life, or perhaps because of it. Do not let your situation lead to avoidance when it comes to monetary discussions.
Teaching your kids about the value of an item, how long it would take someone to earn enough money to buy things, and the ideas behind wants versus needs will become invaluable lessons as they move through life. Have open and honest conversations about spending money and bring them to places, such as the grocery store, so they can witness the concepts firsthand.
Watch this video for a unique perspective on teaching kids financial literacy.
Learning is a lifelong endeavor for everyone. Start your kids off right to give them the best opportunities to gain new information and embrace the love of learning. Make learning playful and fun while looking for unique ways to inform and educate your kids.
