How Children Learn

Every day, children learn, grow and develop. Learning and the love of learning begins at home. The teachings your children receive from you and the people around them will help your children learn. They learn from their parents and grandparents, and from other role models in their life, like extended family and community members, family friends, teachers and siblings.

Provide new and positive experiences

First Nations, Inuit and Metis children need parents and caregivers who introduce them to the world, the people in it, and their natural surroundings. Think about the different ways your children can meet new people, try new things and test their abilities. New and positive experiences help children’s brains develop in a healthy way. It also encourages them to trust themselves and be more willing to try new things. It is important to include new and positive experiences and opportunities for learning in your children’s daily life.

Promote a positive attitude

Children learn more from what they see you do than from what they hear you say. Your outlook can make a huge difference in the health and well-being of your children. When you eat well, exercise regularly, and express your emotions in a healthy way, children follow your lead. They watch how you spend your free time, what your attitude is toward work and education, how you talk to and about other people, and how you show and deal with your emotions.

By watching your attitude and behaviour, children learn how to get along with other people. They learn about the value of lifelong learning and about working hard, regardless of whether your work involves paid employment or taking care of everyday tasks around your home. More importantly, children learn that they are a priority to you. When you make a mistake, let your children know you made a mistake but have learned from it. Talk about what you learned from your mistake. This teaches your children that you are learning too. tepwewakennimitisowin means “confidence” in Ojibwe Cree