What have you learned about how children learn?

In class and at work in the early-care field, our 34 AmeriCorps members say they are learning much about the social, emotional and intellectual development of young children. One of the benefits of being an R2LP member is a training class called Mind in the Making: The Science of Early Learning, a 36-hour course offered for college credit. This program, developed by the Families and Work Institute, consists of 12 modules designed to bridge the gap between research in early childhood development and practice in the classroom.

At the final session in late October, the AmeriCorps members were asked to share an insight from class that they have observed firsthand while working with children. Here’s what they said:

“Children hear and absorb everything, even when we think they’re not paying attention.”

“Learning starts as soon as children are born – if not before – and children learn better when given control over what they learn and how they learn it. That is, it’s good to let kids be guided by their own curiosity.”

“Children learn best when they’re playing.”

“I’ve learned that every day we have more and more to learn, and children can be our teachers.”

“Children learn from their friends.”

“[We should] understand that everything [a child makes] does not have to be perfect.”

“Even very young children are curious about their surroundings and how certain things work.”

“Stress can affect a child’s learning.”

“When working with children, it’s important to connect their social, emotional and intellectual development.”

“With effective strategies, you can help children develop better learning and behavioral habits.”

“Listen to children because what they say is important. I’ve also learned how to be consistent with what I do and what I say to children.”

“Use different strategies with different children.”

“I thought babies didn’t really know anything about their surroundings, but I was very wrong. Children even notice their mother’s voice in the womb.”

“Children soak up everything like a sponge, so it is important for us as parents and educators to be role models for them.”

“Children go through many stages when they develop, little bits at a time.”

“Use developmentally appropriate materials in the classroom. Listen to children.”

“[Some schools have] horrible standards of what it is to be educated.”

“I learned to be there for children emotionally.”

“I learned how to help children express themselves when they are having a hard time explaining themselves.”

“Make children feel safe. And never limit a child’s learning.”

“Respect a child’s decision.”