Learning isn’t merely memorizing something.
Learning is a process that leads to change, which occurs as a result of experience and increases the potential for improved performance and future learning.
The goal at Imani Montessori environment is to ensure we develop a positive attitude in children through learning. Each child engages in that learning which has a particular appeal to him or her…because he/she finds the activity geared to his/her needs and level of readiness.
The following activities can improve children’s attitudes both at home and school.
Helping others
Your child could help others by assisting an elderly neighbour with yard work or chores or helping a friend with homework.
Have you ever seen the eyes of an elderly person light up when they hold an infant or play with a toddler? And what preschooler doesn’t like to cuddle up on someone’s lap to hear a book read aloud?
Part of the joy for young children lies in the knowledge that they are performing a service to their community simply by being themselves.
Recording awe moments
Encourage your child to create an awe journal. In the journal they will record sights or moments from their daily lives that they find beautiful or extraordinary . Your child can record these moments with drawings, descriptions, poems or anything that will help keep those memories.
Setting and achieving goals
Encourage your child to set goals , visualize and plan for obstacles in advance. This is called the WOOP (Wish, Outcome, Obstacle, Plan) Approach. This approach will make it more likely that your child will actually achieve hisher goals resulting in increased confidence and a more positive attitude.
Developing new skills and trying new activities
Recognize your child’s strength and give him/her opportunities to develop them and experience success. If your child expresses interest in a new activity let him/her try it out.
Practicing positive affirmations
Positive affirmations are statements designed to build self-esteem through changing negative self-talk. These affirmations for self-esteem make children feel good about themselves and help them embrace their positive qualities. Guide your child to come up with affirmations that are short, positive and present tense . ‘I am Kind’, ‘I am Loving’ ,’I am Confident’.
In the end you want them to take ownership of the process. This will make them more likely to commit to practicing their affirmations.
Developing a positive attitude is crucial to raising a responsible child.
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