As parents, it’s important for us to stay connected with our child’s learning and school life.
However, sometimes it can be challenging to get our children to open up and share with us. Here are some tips on how to encourage your child to talk about their learning and school experiences.
Tip #1: Ask Open-Ended Questions
Instead of asking your child questions that can be answered with a simple “yes” or “no,” try asking open-ended questions that require more detailed answers. Examples of open-ended questions include:
- What did you learn today?
- What was the most interesting thing you learned today?
- Can you tell me more about that?
- How did you feel about that activity/project/lesson?
By asking open-ended questions, you give your child the opportunity to share their thoughts and feelings about what they are learning, which can help deepen their understanding of the material.
Tip #2: Listen Without Judgement
When your child does open up and share with you, it’s important to listen without judgement. Try not to interrupt or criticize their thoughts and ideas. Instead, listen attentively and show interest in what they are saying. This will help your child feel valued and heard, which can encourage them to continue sharing with you in the future.
Tip #3: Share Your Own Experiences
Sharing your own experiences can help your child feel more comfortable opening up to you. For example, if your child is struggling with a particular subject, share a story about a time when you struggled with something similar and how you overcame it. This can help your child feel less alone and more confident in their ability to overcome challenges.
Tip #4: Make It a Regular Habit
One of the best ways to encourage your child to talk about their learning and school experiences is by making it a regular habit. Set aside time each day to ask your child about their day and what they learned. By making it a routine, your child will come to expect these conversations and may be more likely to open up and share with you.
Tip #5: Use Technology to Your Advantage
In today’s digital age, technology can be a great tool for staying connected with your child’s learning and school life. For example, many schools use online portals where parents can access information about their child’s assignments, grades, and attendance. Use these tools to stay informed and ask your child specific questions about their assignments and progress.
Evidence suggests that parent involvement in their child’s education has a positive impact on their academic success. According to a study published in the Journal of Educational Psychology, students whose parents were actively involved in their education had higher grades and test scores, were more likely to attend school regularly, and had better social skills than students whose parents were less involved (Grolnick & Slowiaczek, 1994).
Talking to your child about their learning and school experiences can have a significant impact on their academic success and overall well-being. By asking open-ended questions, listening without judgement, sharing your own experiences, making it a regular habit, and using technology to your advantage, you can help your child feel supported and valued in their learning journey.
References:
Grolnick, W. S., & Slowiaczek, M. L. (1994). Parents’ involvement in children’s schooling: A multidimensional conceptualization and motivational model. Child development, 65(1), 237-252. doi: 10.1111/j.1467-8624.1994.tb
