Think of how excited you feel when you learn something you
really wanted to know and found out by following your curiosity. Kids learn
best the same way. A curriculum makes sure important topics get covered, but
why not encourage your kids to also pursue projects that are based on their own
interests?
PBS.org offers these five steps towards “authentic
learning,” experiential projects that engage children, allowing parents to
either step back and offer a minimal amount of focused support, or participate
in a family effort.
Start with what interests your child. Observe the
moments when your kid's eyes light up and questions bubble to the surface.
Whether it's an animal or plant, a book or film, an activity they love to do,
take note of what piques their curiosity.
Find resources. Consider how you and your child might
learn more about the topic: a book, a website, a video, an organization, a
community member who's an expert. Link up with other kids who have a similar
interest.
READ MORE: Make your home an ideal learning environment
Ask questions. Rather than giving instructions, pose
questions that will lead your child to think independently and solve problems.
For example: “What kind of tool might help you out here?” “What else do you
need to know?” “What do you think would happen if…” and “How can you find out?”
Connect with other disciplines. Bring in the science
of how things work. If research requires inquiries, encourage your child to
write a letter to someone they know about what they are working on. Drawing and
labeling may become part of the project as well. Math can be used to understand
the impact of what's being studied. For example, if your child loves pets, let
them figure out what it costs to have the pet in your family. Perhaps someone
in the family has videography skills and can help make a video to record the
project. If you find a practical use for education, your child is more likely
to embrace other disciplines.
Go farther. Your child's research might lead to new,
related projects. Also look for ways to extend the discoveries beyond your
household. Who else might be interested in what your child has learned? You can
help by making connections with neighbors, teachers, organizations.
This is only the beginning of making learning exciting.