A curious child is one who loves to learn and who enjoys the opportunity to expand their horizons. For parents and other adults who want to foster this sense of curiosity in children, there are more than a few things to consider. Keep reading to learn how to do this.
1. Praise the Efforts, Rather Than the Results
A lesson that is taught at locations like The Perse School is to stay focused on the process. Rather than looking to the answer all the time, consider the process and encourage children to pursue and explore the things they are interested in. They should also be taught to feel confident when trying to find new information on their own.
2. Encourage the Child’s Passions
It is a good idea to focus on joint projects, family activities, and discussions about topics that are interesting to a child. For example, do they love sports? If so, try to provide them with books about different athletes. It is also a good idea to discuss the physics that goes into hitting a ball with a bat and how to scientifically increase the distance a Frisbee travels. By fostering their interest, a child will feel more encouraged to explore and learn.
3. Make Reading an Activity That Is Interactive
When reading takes time to stop and discuss what is going on. Stop in the middle of the story being read and find out while children believe it is going to happen next. It is also a good idea to ask them to think about what they would do if they were the character in the book. These types of critical thinking activities are invaluable when it comes to reading.
4. Talk and Think Out Loud
It is a good idea for parents to let their children hear what is going on in their heads. Letting them hear what an adult’s curiosity sounds like is beneficial to children of all ages. Be sure to ask plenty of questions, about any and everything. This is true regardless of if the questions are to another person or rhetorical.
5. Investigate a Child’s Queries
When a child asks about how something is working or why something is how it is, find out. Don’t just say “I don’t know,” and move on. Instead, turn to the internet. It is also possible to find the needed information at the library. The key here is to let children know that their questions and thoughts matter. Be sure to keep this in mind and show children that you are willing to help them find the information they are seeking.
Bonus: Ask Plenty of Questions
Parents and adults can help to encourage critical thinking in children by getting them to wonder about the world that is around them. The best way to do this is by asking questions about everything and listening to the child’s thoughts on the situation.
When it comes to children, there are more than a few ways to help foster their curiosity. With the tips and advice here, parents should know what to do to help encourage their kids to think critically. Being informed is the best way to ensure that the desired results are achieved regardless of a child’s age or what they want to know about.