When you try to support kids at home, what’s the hardest part? For many of us, it’s not as easy as one clear reason. Some days, the problem is finding the time with multiple activities or family events to do. Other days, the problem might be information overload and you just don’t know where to start.
5 simple steps to enrich learning and support kids at home
Did you catch the magical word?
Simple! We don’t need to complicate the process just to call it enrichment.
Step 1- topic of interest
I believe in placing learning in kids’ hands and this is where that process starts. Give them ownership by deciding what they want to learn about. So what if the 4th grade class is working on learning the planets in order… if you’re child is intrigued by the patterns of bats, let them explore bats at home because to be honest, they probably won’t have time to do it at school. Learn more about how to boost imagination here!
Step 2- asking questions
Once your child has chosen a topic of interest, have them think of what specifically they want to learn about. I think the easiest way to do this is to write a list of questions. Fold a piece of paper into 6 squares and have your child write the 6 question words- who, what, when, where, why, and how- on the page with one word in each square. Then, set a timer and have them write as many questions as they can in 10 minutes.
Step 3- research & learning
Now that there’s a map of sorts, we can get to the investigation part. Go through the list of questions and have your child circle one or two in each box. Then, visit the library, go to museums, or conduct research online to find answers to each question. Whichever path you choose, make sure you’re right there to guide and supervise your child.
Step 4- highlight creation
In my opinion, enrichment doesn’t exist without creation. Kids can create diagrams, stories, maps, dioramas, artifacts, plays, puppet shows, and on and on. Seriously, the list is endless. If you’re struggling to find exactly what to help your child create, start with their strengths, like writing or design, and then look up examples of creations in that category. My favorite place to go for creative inspiration is Pinterest because the visual component helps me think about how I can make the ideas my own.
Step 5- share knowledge
This step is really more of a bonus because this is all about presenting knowledge to someone new. If you’ve been working side-by-side with your child, they may not feel this step is necessary. However, you may have a kid that loves to give presentations. Set them up in the living room to present to the family or record their presentation for extended family to see.
Remember to let your child pace these steps. This whole process may take a few days or it could take a few weeks, it just all depends on the amount of time you can invest. The most important thing, though, is to have fun! Enrichment should not be a chore or just something to check off a list… it should be enjoyed as a new learning experience and a chance to stretch creativity.
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