CURIOUS TODDLERS
HELPING
YOUR CHILD
TO LEARN
Children usually learn in a predictable sequence. They typically recognize images first, even learning to spin stories around these images, and over time, their recognition and understanding extend to more advanced concepts such as words and sentences.
However, each child is unique and different, so there is no set rule as to how much or how fast your child should learn at a certain age.
Creating a positive learning environment
As a parent, you can nurture your child’s cognitive development in the following ways:
Pay close attention to your child’s learning. For example, instead of just letting him watch TV by himself, watch it with him and point out interesting things that he may not have noticed on his own.
When your child experiences a new situation, give him the opportunity to explore and learn things by himself first. Don’t rush to teach him or take over the situation. Instead, offer advice and guidance.
Let your child learn from mistakes. Instead of quickly correcting him or taking over when he does something that you feel is wrong, let him go ahead and make those mistakes. You can later guide him or explain where he went wrong.
To help your child develop his ability to make decisions, let him decide on simple things, such as what shoes to wear to kindergarten.
Create as many opportunities as possible for your child to learn. For example, you can provide toys that stimulate creativity, or allow your child to participate in programmes or activities designed to expand his cognitive development. Games such as “Simon Says!” can also help to develop your child’s attention skills. Communicate with your child often to help develop his language skills, such as by talking and playing with him often. From listening and watching you, your child will learn how to better express himself using words as well as gestures and facial expressions.
Source: MIMS HealthToday Malaysia