When every opportunity to learn something is associated with some form of work, especially in a form that your child dislikes, they’ll eventually begin to negatively associate learning with work. A love of learning is based on curiosity and exploration. Parents can support curiosity and exploration through interacting with their children by making learning fun and adventurous.
The fact that a love of learning is fostered by allowing creative exploration may make you question why your child has to deal with projects and tough assignments at school. Teachers assign these as part of project based learning opportunities. They create quantifiable work products, which can be translated into a grade, or which satisfy a measurable standard. The fact is, school assignments help teachers measure the growth and proficiency of their students skills. In private education, this allows them to identify areas of weakness, building on their strengths, and plan further instruction.
As a parent, you have the freedom to make your student's assignments and projects something adventurous. Creating more "pop-quizzes" or assignments in the home will only hinder your students desire to learn. It is healthy to allow your student to pursue curiosity simply for curiosity's sake. Ultimately, this will teach your child learning doesn't have to be a job, it can be fun!
Allow your child creative freedom
By encouraging exploration and avoiding turning every learning opportunity into a job, you can help your child feel free to embrace their curiosities and engage in the world around them. Exposing them to a variety of experiences such as museums, cultural events, plays, sporting events, and science centers are all great examples of experiences that can stimulate your child’s curiosity. It’s important to keep in mind that in order to enjoy learning, your child has to be able to pursue their own interests.
At St. Barnabas Episcopal School we want your child to enjoy learning. Student engagement and the desire to pursue knowledge are integral to your child’s future success. High academic standards coupled with opportunities for exploration make our school the ideal environment for your child’s education. Contact us today to schedule a tour or to learn more.