Children's Learning at Home: 12 Ways Parents Can Support
As a parent, you undoubtedly want your child to succeed in their academic and personal life. One of the best ways to support your child's learning journey is by being an active participant in their education. Although school is an important place for learning, it's equally important to reinforce these lessons at home. In this blog, we will cover the basics of how parents can support their children's learning at home. We'll provide you with tips and strategies to make learning fun and engaging for your child. By the end of this blog, you'll have a better understanding of how you can help your child reach their full potential. So, let's get started on this exciting journey of learning!
12 Ideas to Enhance Learning At Home for Kids
Read with your child
Reading with your child is one of the best things you can do to support their literacy skills. Reading helps improve vocabulary, comprehension, and language skills. For example, you could read a bedtime story with your child every night. You could also take turns reading aloud with your child.
All you need is a book and a cozy spot to sit together.
Play educational games
Playing games is a fun way to reinforce learning. Educational games help improve problem-solving, critical thinking, and math skills. For example, you could play board games like Scrabble or Monopoly, Cornered or Memory Game On to engage child in productive play. Games like Claws Clash, Tri-It are fun not just for kids but also for adults.
All you need is the game and a willingness to play with your child.
Encourage writing
Writing is an essential skill that helps improve communication and critical thinking. Encourage your child to write by providing them with writing prompts or by having them write in a journal. For example, you could ask your child to write a story about their favorite animal or write a letter to a grandparent.
All you need is a pen and paper or a computer.
Watch educational videos and subscribe to educational programs
Watching educational videos is a great way to reinforce learning and keep your child engaged. Educational videos help improve comprehension, vocabulary, and listening skills. You can find many educational videos for free on YouTube or educational TV shows like Bill Nye the Science Guy.
Note - We do not recommend watching digital screens for more than >2 hours a day.
In fact, you can subscribe to educational programs that provide quality educational material to you for practice at home. For example, APSC program by Shikshanand provides daily learning for kids directly to parents. This can easily save you hassle and time to find good content everyday and make your task easy of delivering the right knowledge and stimulating the brain for kids.
Take field trips
Field trips are a fun way to reinforce learning and provide real-life experiences. Field trips help improve observation, inquiry, and critical thinking skills. For example, you could visit a local museum or zoo. You could also take a nature walk and explore your surroundings.
All you need is transportation and a willingness to explore.
Have discussions
Having discussions with your child is a great way to reinforce learning and encourage critical thinking. Discussions help improve communication and analytical skills. For example, you could have a discussion with your child about a current event or a book they're reading.
All you need is a willingness to listen and discuss.
Provide hands-on activities
Hands-on activities are a great way to reinforce learning and encourage creativity. Hands-on activities help improve problem-solving and fine motor skills. For example, you could have your child build a model of a famous landmark or create a collage.
All you need are materials that are specific to the activity.
Teach life skills
Teaching life skills is an essential part of supporting your child's learning journey. Life skills help improve independence, responsibility, and decision-making. For example, you could teach your child how to cook a simple meal or how to do laundry. You can read more on how to Raise Good Humans - Creative Activities to teach Kids Important Values
All you need is the willingness to teach and the necessary materials.
Create a routine
Creating a routine is an important part of supporting your child's learning journey. A routine helps improve organization, time management, and responsibility. For example, you could create a routine for your child's homework or daily chores.
All you need is a willingness to create a routine and stick to it.
Volunteer and give back to the community
Volunteering and giving back to the community can help your child develop empathy and social skills. You can volunteer as a family or encourage your child to volunteer on their own. For example, you could volunteer at a local food bank or animal shelter or participate in a community cleanup event.
Encourage physical activity and exercise
Encouraging your child to be physically active and exercise can help improve their overall health and well-being. Physical activity can also help improve attention, focus, and academic performance. For example, you could encourage your child to participate in sports, go for a walk or hike, or do yoga.
Provide opportunities for creativity
Providing opportunities for creativity can help your child develop their imagination and problem-solving skills. You can provide materials and resources for your child to create art, music, or other creative projects. For example, you could provide art supplies like paper, paint, and markers, or encourage your child to write and perform their own play or music.
Conclusion
As a parent, you play a crucial role in supporting your child's learning at home. By incorporating simple activities like reading, playing educational games, and practicing mindfulness, you can help your child develop a love for learning and build important skills that will serve them well throughout their lives. Additionally, subscribing to quality educational programs or investing in educational games and toys can provide your child with access to even more valuable learning opportunities.
Remember -
Learning doesn't have to be a chore - with a little creativity and dedication, you can help your child enjoy the learning process and set them up for success.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How much time should I spend on educational activities with my child?
A: The amount of time you spend on educational activities with your child will depend on their age and attention span. For younger children, shorter activities of 10-15 minutes may be more appropriate, while older children may be able to engage in longer activities. Start with a few activities each day and adjust as needed based on your child's interest and attention.
Q: Can educational games and toys really help my child learn?
A: Yes, educational games and toys can be a fun and engaging way for your child to learn. Look for games and toys that are age-appropriate and aligned with your child's interests and learning goals. In fact, educational games and toys can also provide opportunities for socialization and collaboration along with critical thinking and problem solving skills.
Q: Do I need to spend a lot of money on educational resources?
A: No, you don't need to spend a lot of money on educational resources. Many educational resources can be found for free/ very cheap online or through your local library. Additionally, there are many affordable educational games and toys available. For example - educational games at Shikshanand are of high quality and priced under INR 500. You can also look for educational programs or subscriptions that fit within your budget.
Q: Can I still support my child's learning if I have a busy schedule?
A: Yes, even if you have a busy schedule, you can still support your child's learning at home. Look for simple activities that can be incorporated into your daily routine, like reading before bedtime or practicing mindfulness during breakfast. Additionally, find educational programs or subscriptions like APSC daily learning program that can provide valuable learning materials/ opportunities for your child even when you don't have a lot of time to plan activities. This way, you will be able to outsource the work of designing/ curating fun learning activities to an expert and despite your busy schedule, you will be able to deliver the best to your child.