Do you have a toddler? Are you exploring opportunities to teach them at home?
In a recent article by The Conversation, an increasing number of Australian parents have resorted to home-schooling. For their older children, there are many reasons why it is the best option – religious beliefs, finances, geography, dissatisfaction with traditional schools, bullying, and special learning needs.
In the case of toddlers, some parents feel that it is too early for their kids to start schooling. However, educators believe that toddlers below the age of four will greatly benefit from home early learning. Here are three benefits of teaching them at home.
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To Take Advantage of This Fast Learning Stage
Studies from Columbia University show that toddlers learn faster because their prefrontal cortex is still developing. At this stage, their minds are imaginative and open to learning.
Another reason is that their brain cells are developing synapses. The earlier they are exposed to learning experiences, the more these connections are strengthened and reinforced. As a result, they remember faster.
As a parent, you can teach them the basics at home – how to count, recognize colours, and be familiar with shapes. As a supplement, you can partner with online schools and use their videos, workbooks, and products. They have well-researched methods to help your child enjoy home early learning.
To Protect Them from Infection
Before the pandemic, some parents were already sending their toddlers to preschool. However, in a news report by The West Australian, a toddler was diagnosed with COVID-19 after being exposed to returning travelers.
It is wise to keep your toddler at home to avoid exposure to the virus. This setup, however, should not stop you from teaching them. Take advantage of online programs that offer teaching materials in different media formats. These lessons are built upon previous lessons to reinforce learning,
To Be Equipped with Personalized Learning
At home, you will observe the natural inclinations of your child. Give them tools and experiences and see their eyes light up with whatever interests them.
For example, a budding architect will gravitate toward building blocks, drawing simple floor plans, and learning architectural styles across the globe. They will even volunteer for small construction projects at home.
Enrolling your child in an online home learning school will draw out their latent potential. Most programs encourage stress-free learning at their own pace. They are free to explore their interests while being guided by the program.
To Build Emotional Bonds
Perhaps one of the best benefits of home-schooling is the strong emotional bonds built in families. With home early learning, parents will enjoy the following:
- Adapting teaching methods depending on their speed of learning. If you discover that the learning program is too advanced, you can use lessons that are six to nine months earlier than your child’s age.
- Coach them personally. In traditional schools, teachers may not be available to answer individual questions. At home, however, you will be around to answer questions and give more practical examples.
- Keep them safe from bullying, violence, drugs, and negative influences.
When choosing a home early learning program, education experts recommend getting a play-based learning program. Children retain information better when learning in the context of playing. Plus, you enjoy the advantage of building a positive relationship with your kids.
