Cultus
The fact that children come into the world with a seemingly unquenchable inquisition is a good thing for encouraging them to take an interest in their academic subjects. This natural curiosity is perfect for subjects (like science) that involve understanding the world around us.
Here are some tips on nurturing this natural desire to explore.
Answer their questions
It is very easy to brush aside your children’s questions because you don’t have time. This may seem trivial to some parents, but continuing to ignore their little queries can prevent them from asking about things in the future.
Getting answers is positive reinforcement for a child, and they will subconsciously understand that curiosity is a good thing. This also opens the door to new subjects to explore and develops their interests.
It can be easy to forget that children are essentially learning how to learn and will find everything fascinating.
Technology
In the modern age, technology is at the forefront of everything we do. There are obviously many benefits, but there is a very real danger of using technological devices such as tablets to act as babysitters.
When this happens too often, children become submerged in virtual worlds made for them and their own powers of imagination are not used. After being presented with ready-made games and TV shows, they are not learning to think for themselves, which is not translated well in their academic lives.
Of course, technology can be a very useful tool if used in the correct manner, so make sure that as a parent you monitor their usage
Home environment
Giving your child a sense of independence and autonomy can help their inquisition to flourish. Supporting their personal choices will encourage their individuality to shine through and will nurture their interests.
In addition, make sure you take interest in their interests. With a solid support system at home, children are going to be encouraged to pursue those activities with more enthusiasm – they will want to delve deeper.
Make sure you are ready to listen to your child, especially to any negative sentiments they might have. It is important for people to be able to express themselves and confide in someone they trust. Bottled up feelings are unhealthy and will affect their mental state in other aspects of their lives.
Challenging your child
Setting challenges for your children is one of many great parenting tips to encourage a budding curiosity. When children remain in their comfort zone they do not expand their mental capacity and there isn’t any sense of achievement.
Overcoming barriers and challenges helps them to think outside of the box. New experiences will cultivate curiosity which can be translated into their academic studies, but also in every aspect of their lives. Here are some motivational science teaching tips that can be utilized by parents to expand their child’s horizons.
However, it is necessary to set challenges that are actually achievable – children need to feel capable yet not bored. These challenges can be implemented into everyday activities, like tasks around the house. When it comes to children, a holistic approach is best.
To conclude, creating balance in a child’s life is the best way to nurture their natural curiosity. You don’t need to teach them to ask questions because that is an innate thing; it is simply about providing an environment where they can flourish.
If you have any comments on encouraging your child’s natural inquisitive nature, please leave your tips below.
Author: Tooba Kazmi believes that parents who encourage their children’s curiosity at home help to instil a passion for learning in their young ones.
