We all want our kids to do well in life, and that starts with a good education. But learning shouldn't be confined to the classroom.
Here are a few tips to give your child a bit of motivation in the learning department...
Know your child
Pay attention to how your child learns best. Do they absorb information more when they see it written down? Or are they more of a visual learner? Once you know this, you can make learning easier for them.
Get cooking
The kitchen is a good place to start conversations about healthy eating and body image. Plus, if you let them help you with dinner, they'll also learn a thing or two about cooking simple, decent meals - that's a lifeskill in itself.
Bring in the music
Music is a powerful motivator. The next time they need to learn times tables, get them to sing it. They might just remember them that bit more easily.
Let them experiment
We learn by trying new things, so the next time they want to mix different paints together just for the fun of it, let them. You can worry about the mess later.
Visit learning spaces
Museums and art galleries have always been great ways to teach children. These days, many are interactive making them even better again. So if your child is into science, why not pop into the next science exhibition that's on? It'll deepen their interest even further.
Ask questions
A great way to get your child thinking - really thinking - is to ask questions. If they're big into reading, ask them about their favourite books, their favourite characters, why they liked something and didn't like another.
Don't give direct answers
Let your child reach for the answers themselves. The next time they ask you something, try saying "what do you think?" or "Let's google it together."
Praise them
Praise is a great way to encourage children, especially if they do well in an area they often struggle with. So if your child passes their maths test, tell them 'good job.' It'll help them to see they're making progress, even if what they've achieved is minor.
Watch documentaries
From animals to the human body, documentaries are a great way to teach children about the world.
Give constructive feedback
“I think to make this better, or to improve on this, you could possibly do X, what do you think?” For right or wrong answers you can say, “You’ve tried really hard and I can see how you were thinking, but the correct answer is Y because X.”
Read, read, read with your child
Choose fun books that make them laugh. Talk about the characters, the themes and messages. Share your own memories and thoughts that connect to the story. This is a special bonding time that will instil so much intrinsic motivation for learning (and will improve their reading skills dramatically).
Get moving, eat well
It’s the best way to get rid of stagnant energy and replace it with motivation for good feelings and growth. Plus, a healthy diet is vital to keep fatigue at bay.
Value education yourself
Let your child see you reading, watching the news, visiting museums, enjoying new cultures. If mum doesn't value learning, you can be fairly sure the child won't either.
Travel
Seeing different places helps to foster a curiosity and appreciation of other people and cultures. And you don't have to take them to the other side of the world. Even other parts of the country can open their minds.
