“Learning is the product of the activity of learners.” – John Holt

Do only textbooks and rote-learning play a role in a child’s establishment and well-being? Children develop the habit of learning from day one. In the beginning, every child tries to understand the world through his senses. As the years go on, they start to reason and think about what they see around themselves.

This art of reasoning is called “perception”, which varies depending upon the exposure that children get in their early days, and influences their learning styles. (Read our blog on decoding your child’s learning style!)

Let us dive in and understand the importance of the kind of learning that remains with a child throughout his/her life.

Learning by asking questions

Children develop curiosity and learn best by asking questions. Questions like “Why do we sleep?” or “Why does C come after B?” puts the smartest adult into deep thought.

Children should be given an environment where they feel comfortable to ask questions to their hearts’ content. Here’s how we can help them as teachers, parents or guides:

1. Ensure there is a safe space for them to speak freely – maybe at home or at school.
2. Encourage conversation by facilitating discussions – either one-on-one or in a group.
3. Normalize and engage in their curiosity – let them ask questions and explore.
4. Lead by example – children really look up to their mentors.

Involvement

Children pick up habits, actions and words easily, and learn what they see.

Active involvement or participation of a child is an important key for new things in life. Encouraging a child to be involved in social settings, builds team spirit, the courage to speak in a dynamic environment and the art of cooperation.

Here’s how we can help them as teachers, parents or guides:

1. Understand the child’s interests to assist him/her in the creation of their goals.
2. Make the discussion/activity engaging, interactive and fun so the child does not get distracted. 
3. Involve them in hands-on-activities, like experiments or small projects, so that it brings within them the curiosity to set goals and assume responsibility.

Learning in various ways

Every child is unique, and so is their way of learning. It is very important for a teacher to understand dominant senses and preferences to guide children. Check out some pointers below:

1. High-energy children should be taught in a way that they learn the best – by engaging them in games and/or role-playing activities.
2. According to several studies (read – Parenting or Teaching the Curious Observer Child), quiet kids are very good observers. They need their own space to express their interests and they must be given that space. To encourage kids who prefer non-energetic activities, puzzles or word searches can help.

One cannot teach an entire class or batch of unique children in one particular way, and it is up to us, as teachers and mentors, to understand this and facilitate learning in a way that is conducive for each child.

In this day and age, the young generation has so many questions, and much learning to do! We should ensure that none are left unanswered – we want our future leaders to be prepared for the environment and the world.