Feeding your child’s thirst for knowledge is essential for them to grow up with confidence.
- Learning is a fundamental aspect of all children’s development.
- This allows children to be more independent and gain self-confidence.
- Several tools can help you implement learning such as encouragement or games.
Learning is a fundamental aspect of all children’s development. One approach to helping him learn involves accompanying him with affection while guiding him according to his needs. In five steps, you can encourage their autonomy and the development of new skills while strengthening their self-confidence.
Step one: break down tasks into simple steps
Young children can sometimes feel overwhelmed by seemingly complex tasks, like getting dressed. To help, you can break down the task into several simple steps. For example, instead of asking him to get completely dressed, start by teaching him to put on his socks, then to distinguish left foot from right foot, etc. Once you have mastered each step, move on to the next one.
Second step: encourage initiatives
Encouragement is a key part of building your child’s confidence. When he succeeds in accomplishing a task, even a small one, congratulate him warmly. Also let him know regularly how proud you are of him to strengthen his motivation and learn more.
Step three: simplify the task
Your child may need a little help with certain tasks, such as holding the bottom of the zipper on their coat so they can do it themselves. This minimal assistance allows him to feel autonomous while experiencing success. Remember to name the actions you take to help him better understand how to do the task on his own in the future.
Step Four: Make Suggestions If Necessary
When your child tries to do something on his own, first observe his efforts. If necessary, offer verbal suggestions to guide him without doing the task for him. For example, if your child tries to feed himself and the food falls out, ask him to open his mouth wide to make it easier for the spoon to enter.
Step Five: Be a Role Model
Playing together can be a great way to encourage learning. For example, you can dress a doll together to encourage it to imitate these actions when it tries to dress itself. Use these times to be a positive role model and show them how to complete a task successfully.
Find out more: “I know how to do it” by Alain Laboile and Hifumiyo.
