Cultivating Curiosity

In the swirl of education games, video, apps and specialised camps for even the youngest children, parents can feel confused about the best way for their children to learn new information. Reacting to cultural pressure to raise the next generation of geniuses, combined with the exhaustion of daily stress, parents tend to either overdo their own teaching efforts or shy away entirely from teaching. Finding the right balance is different for every family based on numerous factors, including each child’s temperament and readiness. The truth remains, however, that parents and regular caregivers are children’s first teachers and children’s best learning happens during the everyday routines, activities and conversations that occur with adults who spend the most time with them. This is all good news, because it removes the pressure that every moment should be a “big teachers moment” and sets up the parent / child relationship for a more positive, consistent connection.

“Curiosityisthekey

Thatopensaworldof

Discoveryandjoy”

So what’s the best way to optimise everyday learning opportunities? Hook into the curiosity that is natural to each and every child. Curiosity is the key that opens a world of discovery and joy. Parents can easily support and tap into their children’s innate curiosity. With a playful mindset and attuned presence, parents can find joy in teaching and learning along with their children. Being a role model and a mirror is a great way to demonstrate a genuine love of learning, children receive the message that it’s good to be interested in life and tuned into the world. Follow your child’s lead and trust that they will show you what they want to learn, and when they are ready to learn it. Make frequent, open observations about the immediate world. As in, “I wonder why that baby is crying. “What’s that smell” or even “I wonder what’s wrong” . This is modelling curiosity. To mirror curiosity focus on the same thing that your child is focused on. For example if your child is watching the autumn leaves fall from the trees, just sit next to them and watch also - without speaking. Enjoy the stillness and feeling connected, even if it’s only for a few minutes or seconds. The questions will then start to come and they will soon start to have a sense of curiosity about everything. Learning about season changes, times of the day and adjusting to temperature changes and bed times will give you lots to discuss which will lead to great meal time conversations without the need of tablets and other distractions.