Guest Blog by Karleia Steiner
When attempting to maximize the learning potential of a child, parents are the primary resource used in the development of the child’s character and confidence. In some cases, parents are the motivation that contributes to a child’s personal and academic success.
Although parents may be actively involved with their child’s education; there are several other ways parents can maximize their child’s learning potential.
1. Read, read, read
Reading is one of the most useful tools to maximize a child’s learning potential. Teachers believe that reading at home significantly improves success at school. Teachers recommend asking questions and discussing stories as a more effective alternative to simply reading aloud to children. In some instances, this method offers a learning experience that teaches children about consequences and choices. Reading biographies, historical content, and stories of courage or character is influential to children.
2. Experiences are teaching tools
Daily situations and experiences are useful for learning tools. Teachers encourage children to ask “Why?” and seek answers to any difficult question. Parents should avoid giving their child answers. Moreover, parents should help their child work through the question. This process can improve problem-solving skills and decision making. More importantly, when parents use this method on a consistent basis; such as in the home or during long car rides, the reinforcement is doubled or tripled.
3. Understand the child’s motivation
It is best to encourage children to make the right choice as a result of recognizing the value in their decision rather than out of fear of punishment. The goal is to teach the child to select the appropriate choice instead of forcing them to make the right decision out of fear of disappointment or punishment. In most cases, this will help the child in school and social settings. This type of decision-making process develops a desire for excellence in every activity. For example, the child will study in order to grow academically instead of studying to earn a good grade to impress a parent.
4. Allow the child to fail or succeed
It is easy for many parents to take control of the child’s education. However, successful students learn responsibility, dependability, and organization through trial and error. Many useful life lessons are learned from failures and recognizing how “not” to do something. It is important to remember that parents that complete the work for the child is removing the practice the child needs to properly handle certain situations. More importantly, the satisfaction the child receives from completing a successful assignment is absent. This is useful tool to maximize the child’s learning potential.
5. Understand what the child is studying
This is an important tip that helps parents increase learning potential. Observing assignments and discussing schoolwork can be considerably beneficial to the learning process. It is also helpful to look through textbooks and consult with teachers. This can help the parent identify areas for improvement. In some cases, observing school work can help parents recognize their child’s strengths and weaknesses.
When trying to maximize the learning potential of a child, praise and encouragement are a few of the most useful tools. Aside from these helpful tools, parents must implement specific methods to help their child succeed in school. Children must have confidence and recognize the areas they are good in. Whether these areas are math, science, or art; parents need to help children understand their strengths and cultivate their interest. This is the most effective way to improve learning potential.
Karleia Steiner is a freelance blogger and former educator. Away from the office she enjoys spending time with her daughters. Have a teen who is struggling academically? Midwest Academy in Iowa helps struggling teens with a safe, structured and disciplined environment.
