When we think about learning, we often see it as a neat, straight pathway. You start at point A, you work hard, and you arrive smoothly at point B. Right? In reality, though, learning tends to look more like a wandering hiking trail. . . some detours, a few steep hills and the occasional moment where you wonder if you took a wrong turn. The truth is that learning isn’t always straightforward, and that’s completely normal.
Every Student Learns Differently
Everybody learns differently, and one of the most important things you can do for your child’s education is to honor that.
People absorb information in different ways. Some students learn best by reading, others by listening, and some by getting hands on and trying things themselves. A classroom full of students can have a whole mix of learning styles, and that’s why many modern schools aim to provide a variety of teaching approaches that keep lessons engaging and accessible.
In our microschool, for example, there is a huge prioritization on individualized learning—meeting our students right where they are and inspiring them forward. This is achieved in our low student-to-teacher ratio, small class sizes, and intention around both the curriculum and class content and level structure.
Outside of our program, there are a wealth of educational resources, schools, programs, and classes out there to support your child’s needs! Environments like those at KIS International School, for example, focus on creating flexible learning experiences that encourage curiosity and exploration. They do this rather than having every student to follow the exact same path.
Learning Should Be About Embracing Failure
Mistakes are part of the process, so it’s important to also allow your child to fail! Mistakes are actually one of the most powerful tools for learning. When something doesn’t work the first time, it gives the brain a chance to rethink, adjust and try again. After all, Thomas Edison experimented with the light bulb over 800 times before he got it right!
Many breakthroughs happen only after several attempts that didn’t quite go to plan, because every mistake is a learning curve. Think about learning a new language or solving a tricky math problem: the moments where your child is the most unsure are a part of the journey to getting the answer!
Self-Motivation Is Challenging
Another reality of learning is that motivation isn’t always consistent. Some days everything clicks and your child will feel unstoppable, but other days even the simplest of tasks will feel impossible. This is normal because the brain does need rest and variety in its challenges.
Sometimes a change of perspective makes all the difference, so taking some short breaks, exploring different subjects, even approaching a topic from a new angle, can help to bring your child’s curiosity back. In fact, curiosity is the secret ingredient to learning! When people are genuinely interested in something, they naturally ask questions, explore ideas, and dig deeper.
Instead of focusing only on memorizing information (which can be a priority in some schools/programs), focus instead on encouraging curiosity. This will help students to think critically and connect ideas together.
Remember: Learning Is A Process
Remember that learning is about the discovery, not just a list of tasks to complete. Progress isn’t always obvious in learning, or linear, so be patient! Sometimes when your child is going through his or her day-to-day it will feel like nothing is happening or changing. But one day it will all click!
The small steps, changes, and actions you take right now will all come together for your child in time. Work hard, stay involved, and don’t give up!