Loving school is a challenge for many children.
- Some simple ways can help your child cultivate an interest in school.
- Taking an interest in your school career, valuing your efforts, establishing a routine, etc. are all important elements for strengthening your commitment to school.
- Conversely, you should not express your own concerns or fears about school in front of him.
While most parents want school to be an enriching adventure, whatever their child’s age, knowing how to stimulate their interest by awakening their natural curiosity and encouraging their creativity is a real challenge. Some simple ways can help cultivate this interest in school throughout the educational journey.
Cultivate curiosity and expression
To help your child love school, encourage their curiosity by answering their questions and exploring various topics together. This approach nourishes his desire to learn and strengthens his academic motivation. You can also regularly read stories together to arouse their interest in reading, while promoting their expression and critical thinking.
At the same time, certain everyday gestures, such as encouraging their autonomy, establishing a routine, taking an interest in their school career and valuing their efforts, reinforce their commitment and love for school. By adopting these positive approaches, you help create a positive and lasting school experience for your child.
Gestures that matter to promote love of school
Many small everyday gestures can help make your child love school:
• Promote his autonomy by letting him accomplish tasks on his own, which will strengthen his self-confidence,
• Listen carefully to his concerns about school and answer his questions to reassure him and increase his confidence,
• Establish a routine for the organization, both at home and at school, which allows it to acquire good habits,
• Show interest in their school career by asking them questions about their day and actively participating in school, such as meetings and class activities,
• Read regularly in front of him to make him want to imitate and discover reading,
• Encourage their efforts and not just their results to reinforce their perseverance,
• Congratulate him by highlighting specific aspects of his accomplishments to build his self-esteem and confidence.
What to avoid
Certain behaviors can be harmful, such as placing too high expectations on your child, which can lead to stress and a feeling of early failure. Also avoid using school as a threat, which could create an aversion to learning in general.
Finally, it is recommended not to express your own concerns or fears about school, so as not to unnecessarily disturb your child by avoiding criticizing the school or the teachers for example.
Find out more: “Mom, I don’t want to go to school” by Elsa Editions.