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Did you know that a child’s brain develops most in the first three years of life?
Your child’s brain activity and capabilities are exploding in the toddler years. Not only that, but plenty of research shows that these early years are one of the best times to learn, absorb, and soak in important information and life lessons.
Does this sound like you? Then you’re in the perfect place. In this article, we’ll be sharing tips for raising smart kids. Keep reading to learn the best ways to get your toddler (and beyond) on the path to a bright future.
1. Encourage a Love of Learning
Raising smart children starts with encouraging a love of learning. You can do this by introducing them to various subjects from a young age and allowing them to pursue their interests. Common games and activities such as puzzles, matching, and crafting are great for developing problem-solving skills.
Also, homeschooling has become an increasingly popular form of great education as it allows children to have more freedom in their learning and offers a more personalized approach. While homeschooling has many benefits, it isn’t always the best choice for everyone. If you’re wondering — is homeschooling better for your kids? — click here.
2. Set a Good Example
Setting a good example is an important tip for raising smart kids. Children learn best through example, and if they observe adults who lead by example and make thoughtful decisions, they will mirror this behavior in their actions. While each child is unique, they are all apt to pick up on their parents’ tendencies and habits.
Related article: 5 Strategies of Culturally Responsive Teaching
Therefore, parents must show their children they can make responsible decisions, lead with integrity, and respect others. Instilling these values from an early age helps to shape a child’s moral compass and good character.
3. Provide Opportunities for Hands-on Learning
Hands-on learning can help kids understand concepts better and more deeply. It allows them to get more engaged with the material and can help them develop their problem-solving skills.
It can also help them build self-confidence, practice their creative thinking and make new connections. It could be activities like building a device from an instruction guide or simply playing with LEGO bricks to use their imagination.
4. Encourage Critical Thinking
Critical thinking is a skill and habit that young children can acquire from an early age. It can involve teaching them to question and compare reactions, doubts, ideas, and theories. This can be done through open-ended questions, problem-solving activities, debating topics, or even reading and discussing stories.
When kids are taught to think critically, they build the foundation to become loyalists and creative problem solvers.
5. Limit Screen Time
It is essential to their healthy development to provide an environment free from screen time which can result in a lack of social skills, tunnel vision, poor academic performance, and even depression. Encouraging kids to explore their interests outside of screen time is essential for developing their creative thinking, problem-solving, communication, and self-esteem.
Raise Smart Kids For the Future
Raising smart kids takes commitment, but the tips in this article can help. Developing a nurturing environment, teaching good study habits, and supporting your kids’ struggles can foster intelligence.
Giving your kids attention and inculcating curiosity and exploration can help nurture their brainpower. Act on these tips today and watch your child thrive!
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