Parent-Child Learning: It May be Easier Than You Think

by Caitlin Reusche | CTD Instructor and Guest Contributor

As an early childhood educator and parent, people are always asking me for ways to engage their child in learning at home. In good faith, some have noted that they’ve purchased workbooks, kits, and carved out “school time” at home. Often parents feel frustrated when children refuse to engage in these activities. As a parent, I know the feeling! You’ve carefully cultivated activities you think are appropriate for your child only to come to find your child has zero interest in your hard work!

Luckily, there are easier ways to engage your child in genuine learning experiences. As a Montessorian, I believe in “following the child.” The easiest and most effective way to do this is through observation. What activities does your child enjoy—reading, blocks, snack preparation, dramatic play, cleaning, playdates? Make a quick list! What frustrates your child? You don’t have to sit down for twenty minutes with a notepad and pen. Simply watch your child as he plays and notice what he is doing. Last week, my family was camping with friends and a fellow mother noticed her two year old was very interested in the dinosaur book they had just borrowed from the library. She begged to read it again and again. This mother, Ellen, asked the daughter if she would like to return to the library for more dinosaur books. The child excitedly answered “yes!” Ellen went on to say she might add some dinosaur figures to the child’s sandbox.

This dinosaur extension will offer so many learning experiences—another trip to the library,
nomenclature lessons to learn the names of dinosaurs, and dramatic play opportunities. When a
child’s interest drives her learning, you can still meet academic goals while maintaining
engagement.

Another child I know is fascinated by the vacuum. His intuitive parents purchased a real vacuum
and shortened it for his use. They play games such as, can you vacuum two rooms or can you
vacuum something blue? Not only are they practicing appropriate academic skills, this child is
cleaning the house and feeling successful!

Now after interest has been piqued, what do you do? CTD’s Tadpole program creates
opportunities that teach caregivers how to question children about their learning. Children and
caregivers play alongside each other. This is a great way to observe the types of activities a
child is drawn toward. Caregivers in this program say things like “tell me about what you
made,” “why did you make that choice?”, or “what would happen if you…” All of these open-ended
questions allow your child to explain her thinking, an essential skill for life. Materials are simple—stuffed animals, markers, paper, and cardboard boxes—yet children love the opportunity to
create alongside their caregivers and talk about their work!

Relinquishing control over learning can feel very challenging and a bit intimidating; however,
you should trust your observation and have fun with your child!

Caitlin Reusche is an early childhood educator at a public Montessori school in Chicago. She is passionate about parent child learning. Caitlin is a CTD instructor.