Inside: How to Raise an Inquisitive Child. Collaborative post.
Inquisitiveness is something that children will naturally learn about when they’re discovering the world and all that it has to offer. Parents just need to facilitate this and offer ways to make a child feel comfortable in their surroundings, in order to build a level of curiosity and creativity that will help children develop their own personalities and interests. In this guide from a girl school in Notting Hill, we explore how parents can build an environment for their child that allows them to explore inquisitiveness.
Encourage your child to look at creative play
Creative play lets your child explore a range of activities, like arts and crafts, reading books, and role play. The idea is to allow your child to look up ways they can feel creative in their own ways. Provide them with the tools, and let them look at ways they can make fun out of even the smallest of things. It’s all about the freedom your child feels they can explore with the ways they can play at home, in the garden, or in a safe space.
Engage in open conversations with your child
Having that freedom to discuss as much as your child feels curious about will help them understand where curiosity can come from. When your child asks you questions, engage with them further and provide open answers that can let them explore more strands within that same subject. Not only are they learning about new things, but they’re also expanding their horizons through learning.
Pose questions to your child
A lot of times in life your child will turn to you and ask what is happening in front of them. You can ask questions back to them and let them think about what they’ve seen in public. Ask them, “why do you think that?” or “what do you think just happened there?” Let them work on their critical thinking skills as they explore options. Aim to let your child figure it out in their own time, and remind them that there’s no right or wrong answer to what they’re doing, it’s all about letting them feel curious and exploratory.
Take them on fun-filled walks
Walks in the great outdoors can let a child’s imagination run wild, and they’re able to have fun at the same time! Explore the forests near your home, or head up a mountain if they’re up for the challenge. Ask them what they spot in the wild and what they feel about being outdoors – it should be a rewarding experience for your child to appreciate.