Children acquire a vast amount of knowledge in their lives, particularly in the early years. A child's brain is 90 percent developed by the age of 5, according to the Foundation for Early Learning. With such a large jump in brain development, establishing positive learning experiences at a young age benefits your child. Creating a strong bond gives your child a sense of security and confidence that helps her move forward into formal education programs.
Step 1
Create an environment conducive to learning at home. Surround your child with books, educational toys and other tools that inspire her to explore the world. Encourage active exploration of the home environment, both indoors and out.
Step 2
Give your child confidence in his learning by telling him he is able to succeed. Reading Rockets recommends positive talk from a very young age for a strong foundation of confidence.
Step 3
Read to your child on a regular basis. Talking and singing also encourages learning in your child, according to Reading Rockets. These activities encourage language development, teach kids the basics of reading and spark interest in various topics the child may want to learn about.
Step 4
Model continued learning in your own life. Admit when you aren't sure of an answer. This gives you a chance to research the answer with your child, while showing him that learning never stops, even when you reach adulthood. Scholastic recommends discussing methods of learning new information.
Step 5
Find everyday situations that facilitate learning. At the grocery store, help your child practice estimation by estimating the total bill as you add items to the cart. Compare the estimate to the actual total. Many situations exist in daily life to spark learning in a child.
Step 6
Support your child's homework efforts. Reading Rockets suggests finding a quiet homework spot in the home. Check over your child's homework each night to ensure it is complete. Ask your child to explain the concepts covered in the homework. This gives you an idea of how well she actually understands what she is studying.
Step 7
Maintain a positive attitude about learning and school. Even if you have negative memories of school, focus on the positives for your child's sake.
Tips and Warnings
- Consider your child's individual learning differences and interests. Support your child's differences rather than forcing him to change.
Things You'll Need
- Books
