Home is a child’s first learning ground. It is never too early to inspire knowledge. A parent must be intentional in choosing materials that will help their youngsters. What items can help a child open up to discoveries?
Words: Opening Worlds
A library or a small collection of books is a good investment in teaching your child. Buy interesting fiction books that have good story lines and age-appropriate words. Pick non-fiction books that have excellent visuals and clear explanations.
Reading to your child is possible even in their infancy and toddlerhood. This is where they first see different worlds without having to step out of the comfort of the home. Encouraging a love for books can help them have good language acquisition. When they reach their preschool years, they will start to read on their own and enjoy the ink world.
Music: Finding the Rhythm
Music can help with memory retention. No wonder that a child can first learn counting and the alphabet through nursery rhymes. You may expose your child to music to help them grasp some ideas faster. You can also use music to develop bodily kinesthetic abilities. Dancing is fun and spontaneous learning. It is an activity that both parent and child can enjoy.
Lastly, music is not limited to a playlist of songs only. Creating sounds through instruments or random objects is also classified as music. Children will learn how to produce different sounds using different items. When they are old enough, you can help them choose a musical instrument that they can pursue and master.
Educational Toys: Connecting Ideas
Real objects provide much learning for children. Educational toys for all ages are available to help children connect ideas. Puzzles, sensory objects, and organization toys aid a child in developing thinking skills. They can analyze how a part can affect the whole.
Toys for pretend play help a child simulate real-life events. They develop an awareness of how it is to move around the world. This can also be a tool to help them discover their interests. Is your child a budding doctor or a promising baker? Get a clue from what they love to play with.
When they grow older, children can enjoy group games such as board games and card games. These develop social skills, the ability to follow rules, and the use of strategies.
Space: Acquiring Skills
Children also learn in open spaces. They learn about the physical functions of their bodies such as running, jumping, or climbing. Thus, parents must provide a safe and open space where children are free to do as they please. Outdoor or indoor playgrounds are a good example of such places.
You can also involve your child in hobbies such as cooking and gardening. The focus is not on the materials or tools. Rather, a child learns how to interact with the materials presented to them to create an output. They will appreciate the process and take pride when they see what they have managed to create.
There are many avenues for a child to learn. Always remember to make it fun and not forced. What you start at home can be a good foundation when they go for formal education.