For some parents, it may seemed like a difficult task for them to get their growing kids to see the importance in learning because, to the kids, they may see school and education as something that is unavoidable whereas playing and having fun is what they are really interested in. Therefore for them to relate learning to the world outside of the classroom is definitely the last thing on their mind, because for many, focusing on grades takes precedence.
This is even more obvious when it comes to areas like math and science. Children don’t necessarily see how science relates to what they do outside of school. As their thinking is mostly what they can do at the present moment, it may be tough for them to really understand how and why they will need science in the future. This doesn’t have to be the reality for your child as the power eventually lies in your hands. If you are looking for ways to encourage your child to grow an interest in the area of Science, you can consider the following tips!
Get Yourself Involved
You have the ability to set the tone for your child with regards to the importance of learning. Your child’s educator can deliver the message, but if it is not enforced or encouraged at home, there is no relevance for your child.
For example, showing your excitement and interest in your child’s science projects and/or science competitions will encourages them to want to learn more. Your presence alone is encouraging because you are showing interest and this will help them to think that science projects are not created to disrupt their lifestyle. Talking with your child about careers in science also offers him or her a different perspective. Lots of kids want to be astronauts but they don’t see the connection with what they are learning in science at school and that “cool” career.
Buy Science Toys
There are many science toys designed for different ages that are not only educational but also creates tons of fun for your child as well. Items such as circuit boards and science kits give your child a hands-on approach and better appreciation to science outside of the classroom.
One example of a really fun science toy is the Snap Circuits range as seen above. These educational toys let your children make circuits for items like alarms and doorbells, reinforcing what they’re learning and taking it to a whole different level. You can also do simple science experiments with your child without spending money, such as examining leaves or small bugs under a microscope.
Go For A Great Outdoor Adventure
Take some time out of your busy work schedule and plan with your child on weekends or school breaks to take an adventure into the outdoors. The many wonders of nature are a perfect learning environment for science. National parks, wildlife preservation areas, and zoos are some examples of where you and your child can take science out of the classroom. The added benefit of this is that you also get your child more active!
These are just some ways that you can get your child to grow an interest in Science. To keep growing this interest, all you need to do is to focus on doing and planning for activities that are surrounded by the concept of science and this will encourage your child to see it from a new perspective and not just from a textbook. You can also use this approach to help your child to grow an interest in other areas!