Children learn best when they are actively participating in their surroundings.
Fostering a love for learning can set your child up for a lifetime of curiosity and success, says Dev Goel, co-founder and director of The Power Learning Centre, Mumbai.
Photograph: Kind courtesy Milind Soman/Instagram
Parenting is a challenging journey filled with numerous responsibilities and challenges.
A common challenge parents face is related to the child's education.
It is not unusual for children below the age of 10 to complain that studies are boring.
While we all know that academics are essential, making learning enjoyable can be a real game-changer.
This will not only help stimulate your child's imagination but will also make study sessions into a meaningful activity.
Let's explore a few creative ways in which you can incorporate the fun element into your child's educational journey using items available in your home.
1. The Magic Of Storytelling
Reading is where it all begins.
You can transform story time into an adventure by creating a cosy 'magic story corner' with blankets and cushions.
Let your child pick their favourite books and take turns to read.
Try to be animated, use funny voices and let their imagination take flight.
2. Kitchen Chemistry
You can even turn your kitchen into a fascinating science lab.
Simple experiments like mixing vinegar and baking soda to create a volcano can help you teach basic science concepts.
Explain how and why it happens and let your child play the role of the scientist.
3. Arts And Crafts For Learning
Arts and craft can be amazing tools for teaching various subjects.
You can use old magazines, newspapers and scissors to create collages related to topics like geography, history or science.
This hands-on approach will help make regular learning more tactile and memorable for children.
4. Educational Games Night
Take help of classic board games like Scrabble, Chess and Monopoly to boost your child's vocabulary, strategic thinking and math skills.
A bit of healthy competition, accompanied by modest rewards for accomplishments, will further heighten your child's excitement.
5. Garden Of Knowledge
If you have a small garden or a few pots on your balcony, gardening can be a captivating learning opportunity.
Teach your child about plants, their life cycles and the importance of caring for them.
It's a hands-on experience that cultivates a deep appreciation for Nature and an enduring passion for biology.
6. Home History Museum
Make history come alive by creating a mini-museum in your home.
Collect family artefacts, old photographs or items related to historical events.
Encourage your child to conduct research, ask questions, and then present their findings to the family.
7. Maths In The Kitchen
Cooking together can also be a maths lesson in disguise.
Allow your child measure ingredients, understand fractions and calculate cooking times.
Show them the practical applications of maths and how maths is a part of everyday life.
8. Outdoor Exploration And Learning
Embrace the idea that Nature and exploration are excellent teachers for your child.
Encourage them to explore the world around them.
Children learn best when they are actively participating in their surroundings.
Going on a nature walk together and collecting leaves, rocks or insects and discussing what you find can help your child connect with their surroundings.
This kind of hands-on learning helps your child connect with the world and aligns with these teaching ideas.
Remember that being a parent is a constant adventure.
Fostering a love for learning can set your child up for a lifetime of curiosity and success.
By incorporating creativity into academics using items you already have at home and encouraging exploration, you can make the learning journey not only enjoyable but also memorable.
Learning should always be a joyful experience and, with your guidance, your child can thrive academically while having a lot of fun along the way.
Making learning joyous and accessible, and ensuring that mistakes are not feared but viewed as learning experiences, you can make your child’s challenges become opportunities and turn trials into triumphs!
