As parents, we are the great architects and general contractors of our children’s foundations. We design and build the structures in which they live. We establish times and places to play, to study, to practice and to be. We select the environmental systems that will inspire them to continue their growth and development.
Regardless of where they attend school, it is important to build an educational home that inspires your child to yearn to learn and become a more interesting person.
A great way to build a model learning environment in your home begins with a common question that parents ask every night to their budding geniuses: “Do you have homework?” This question is very “task” oriented, meaning that there is some task that has been given to the student by someone else to be completed, and it can be completed with varying levels of engagement. A better question and one which leads to a daily practice is:
“What will you be studying tonight?”
This question leads to a different mindset. It leads the student to adopting an attitude of disciplined practice instead of simply completing a task.
Establish these three habits in your learning home:
1) Read with them.
Read a school-assigned novel with your child. This is a great way to show that you are interested in what they are studying and it will help you to understand what they are trying to navigate and learn. It also makes excellent dinner conversation!
2) Practice with them.
Show them how to practice deliberate study. Designate a time each night that the family studies together… sit at the table or in the living room for 30-60 minutes. Read a book aloud together or read and study individually. Depending on the development of your child, begin with two nights per week and work your way up to 4 or 5 times per week. No electronics. No distractions.
3) Search with them.
If your child asks you a question regarding her studies, (whether you know the answer or not) don’t immediately answer the question. First, determine whether she is asking for your opinion, for a discussion, or only an answer. If for your opinion and discussion, go for it. If for an answer, ask them to explain to you what they know about the topic. Review the chapter in the text with them to look for clues. The goal is to teach them and model ways to work toward a solution, not simply give an answer. It is one of the greatest gifts you can give.
Remember: You have been given a gift. Fortify its strength so that it can stand on its own.
Have fun… and happy learning