Learning isn’t always easy for children, and everyone is different. Adding some fun to the learning process can make a huge difference. Maybe you’re already humming your favorite math song from school.
Find what interests your children or students the most. Start with these suggestions, and keep trying different things.
1. Make it Lively
A flat, lined piece of paper can seem boring to a child who’s learning to write. A list of explorers might bring on a series of yawns. Make these activities more engaging by incorporating visuals and audio. Maybe you do this by using videos, having children design flashcards, or by introducing an art project. Can you make it into a play or have children write songs?
2. Make it Real and Relevant
When lessons don’t seem related to kids’ lives, some kids might tune out. They wonder why the lesson matters. So, show them, and make it fun. Did a favorite movie character do something similar to a figure in history? Talk about it. Did a family member mail a letter? Use it as an opportunity to talk about stamps and letter writing. Is the child curious about mail delivery? See if you can have a tour of a mail facility. Encourage kids to ask questions and see where their interests lead. Listen when children speak. Your attention can help you better understand what gets them excited.
3. Make Friends and Share Tips
Speak with other parents, guardians, or teachers. Ask them what they do to create a fun learning experience for kids. By talking with others, you can learn what works and what doesn’t. You may have similar roles, but each person will have different stories to share. A parent of an older kid might offer insights on making memorization enjoyable for younger kids. A teacher would likely have suggestions from colleagues to share, too.
Through creativity, attention, and conversation, you can build memorable and successful learning experiences for the children in your life.