This is a natural progression for children to take. Try not to force your child into playing with others before they’re ready for it; let them take their time and learn to love learning on their own.
For example, if your child is playing with a kitchen set, ask your child what they’d like to cook and how they will cook it.
For example, when you’re at the grocery store, have your child guess how much the peaches weigh or have them add up the items in your cart. Find games at the store that involve things you want your child to learn about or explore.
For example, if you do follow a schedule, schedule in some time for free time. Let your child choose activities to fill this time. If you don’t follow a schedule, take your child’s lead for when they want some time alone or to play on their own.
For example, if your child is learning about geology, bring them to a cave and take an educational tour, or go to a museum. Use an old, unhooked computer keyboard to teach your child the alphabet. They’ll enjoy getting to press the buttons while learning the letters and becoming familiar with a keyboard.
Ask your kids how they feel about various issues (current events, relationships, values). Let them have opinions without passing judgment. Ask your children to help you understand why they feel the way they do.
Spend some time reading with your child every day. For example, include books as part of your child’s bedtime routine. Make regular visits to the library and check out books. If your library offers story time, go with your child.
For example, if your child is learning about foreign countries, talk about your experiences traveling and ask them where they’d like to visit. Use visual tools like maps or pictures of different places around the world. Ask about what they see in the picture and what makes them curious about it.
Exposing your child to various activities and experiences can help them be open to new things and find interests that they enjoy.
Notice what draws their attention and create more experiences like that.
If they love the ocean, bring them to the ocean and let them explore some tide pools. If this isn’t an option, find some sand for your child to play with at a local playground. To see sea animals, take them to an aquarium.
If your child loves dinosaurs, get a membership to the natural history museum. If they love fish, get a membership to the aquarium. If you have a young child, get a membership to a children’s museum. Let them ask museum workers questions about things they’re interested in.
If your child enjoys art or writing, encourage them to do these activities both at home and in classes.
Prepare your child for new experiences by talking about it beforehand. For example, if your child is nervous to go to a birthday party, say, “Birthday parties are lots of fun! While you might feel shy, I bet the other kids will be friendly and want to play with you. ”
For example, if your child is afraid to go down the slide, go down first and show them that it’s fun. Then, go down with them. Finally, let them try by themselves.
For example, if your child is scared of going to school, let them tell you about what scares them while you listen and soothe them. Then say, “What do you think might make you feel less scared?” Let them give some responses before offering suggestions.
If your child wants to give up, point out their progress. Let them know that even if they’re not where they want to be, they’re beyond where they started. For example, if your child struggles to tie their shoes, encourage them to keep trying. Be patient and give a few gentle pointers, but don’t tell them exactly how to do it.
For example, if your child is having trouble tying their shoe, tie your own shoe to show them how it’s done. Have them follow alongside you or try again after you’re done. Creating an atmosphere of acceptance at home will motivate your child to try new things. [16] X Expert Source Jai FlickerAcademic Tutor Expert Interview. 20 May 2020.
