How to encourage learning in everyday life
When the homework books have closed and the bedtime routine has begun, it's easy to separate life and learning. But we can all encourage it in our everyday routines, from when we're getting ready in the mornings to chatting together before bed.
When the homework books have closed and the bedtime routine has begun, it's easy to separate life and learning. But we can all encourage it in our everyday routines, from when we're getting ready in the mornings to chatting together before bed. Here are our tips on how to encourage learning in small ways throughout the day.
Encourage conversation
Most children don't have any trouble with this one - especially when they reach the age when they suddenly have 100 questions to ask! - but having real conversations (using correct terminology) about topics they're interested in will develop their knowledge and understanding of the subject. Ask what their opinion is, why they love it, what they would change about it - all questions to get their brains into gear.
Swap screens for books
This is a classic tip, but has to be mentioned. Although technology is always our first stop for learning, excessive screen time is not good for children, so try to minimise digital time spent and replace with real books. Make sure that the books you're exploring together are diverse, and that they're choosing a wide range of topics, too. It will help them explore new ideas and concepts, as well as new genres.
Learn from your mistakes
If something goes wrong, we learn from it - and this should be passed onto our kids. It's easy to pretend that as parents we never make mistakes, but when we do, and we show our children that we can appreciate what went wrong, how we can fix it and not make the same mistake again, they'll learn with us.
Share your knowledge with them
Lead by example, and talk about what you learnt that day. Even if it's something small or something they won't be interested in, showing them that learning happens every day, no matter how old you are, creates a normality around learning outside of the classroom and homework hour.
What are your tips for encouraging learning outside of homework? Join our IQ Cards Facebook community, we'd love to hear your advice.
