“Curiosity is a delicate little plant which, aside from stimulation, stands mainly in need of freedom. – Albert Einstein “

Many of you must have seen the Parle-G ad which says “Bachpan se bada koi school nahi, Curiosity se badi koi teacher nahi” which literally means there is no school bigger than childhood and no teacher other than curiosity…very well said. Isn’t? We learn so much during our childhood which serves as a strong foundation for our later stages. First 5 years are the most crucial period of any child’s development phase. They are like wax. Kids are naturally busy and curious people. They don’t have to think a lot for getting curious. Any new thing can stimulate their curiosity. For baby simple things like moving tucks, blinds, curtains, flying birds can be fascinating. Why to go that far, even their own fingers; how they are separated but still are on the same palm can be intriguing. I remember, my daughter used to look at the shadow of the blinds and would smile. Or how two wheels rotates and makes the car move used to fascinate her. That’s how they learn. Right – CURIOSITY?

 “Curiosity is the wick in the candle of learning. William Arthur Ward “

Kids have an instinct power of curiosity. But there is another side to this. And that is when their curiosity taking charge of their other activities. What if they are not able to focus on one particular activity because they are just so curious about the next project? There has to be some way to channelize their curiosity in such a manner that it will be their asset.

Here is a beautiful article on what goes inside our brain when we are curious – http://blogs.kqed.org/mindshift/2014/10/whats-going-on-inside-the-brain-of-a-curious-child/

Now, a fraction from my side..:)

• Give them small tasks: When planning for the day’s activities, don’t tell them everything at once but do give them an overall idea. Now start with small tasks – One at a time. Once they are done with that then go to the next one. This will help them in focusing on one activity and at the same time having the curiosity that what’s coming next.

 

• Talk to them about the importance of prioritizing: I agree this is easier with little older kids. As they grow, their studies, activities increase. If because of their curious nature, they are not able to finish one thing effectively then yes, it’s the time for them to slow down and re-think.

 

• Communication is must: Encourage your child to ask questions. I can understand sometimes it gets too much especially with young kids. Their questionnaire never ends..:). Why, How, Why not are few of their favorite words. But don’t stop them from asking questions. They shouldn’t feel that their questions are of no use.

 

• Let them take the front seat in solving problems: If they come up with any question then show them the way but let them figure it out on their own. That doesn’t meant that you should entirely leave them on their own..No, you are there to help them but let them have the satisfaction of finding the answers. Give them clues, hints. Kids are way smarter than what we think. Older kids can research on internet. For young kids, you can sit with them.

 

 

• Let them know that it’s okay to make mistakes: Tell them it’s okay to make mistakes. You all must have watched (I did and still do many times) Curious George. Why is he called Curious? I must say the Man in Yellow Hat has lots of patience.

And lastly,

Apart from all these points, always remember to encourage your child. Let them know that how much you love them and appreciate their curiosity. Encouragement, Trust and Love are the most valuable gifts that you can give to your child.