If your children enjoy learning on their own – whether in academics or extra-curricular activities, it means that they trust their skills, and are up for any challenge. In Kumon, we identify this as self-learning.
Basically, self-learning is taking in information, processing it, and retaining it without the need for another individual to be teaching in order for children to gain understanding. As a parent, you may have some qualms about self-learning especially since you are used to someone teaching your children from start to end.
Indeed, being a self-learner has its benefits; so you don’t have to worry much about your children if they decide to work on their own. Here are just a few benefits that your children gain from becoming a self-learner:
1. Your children develop better memory retention.
Studies show that children who learn concepts on their own can better remember and retain this knowledge. When your children re-trace their steps when correcting mistakes or when evaluating how problems were solved, there is a high probability that your children have learned important concepts correctly.
2. Your children realize their responsibilities.
When children learn something on their own, they gain a sense of ownership for what they have done and created. Your children demonstrate this when they explain how they came up with certain ideas, and how they answer questions. Moreover, they can easily defend their answer since they are now accountable of their thoughts, words, and actions. This also gives your children a moment to shine when recognized for their good work and effort.
3. Your children develop good work ethic.
When children learn how to do one thing on their own, they then become driven to do succeeding tasks on their own too! This habit of completing tasks individually is a good work ethic you can observe in your children especially if they stick to a routine. Aside from this, your children are already aware of when to ask for help.
4. Your children’s character starts developing.
When your children exhibit high determination and motivation towards their studies and extra-curricular activities, this means that they are ready to face any kind of challenge. Giving up would be their last option and they would tend to try again and again until they get anything right.
5. Your children are ready to go outside of their comfort zone.
Since they are already capable of self-learning, your children’s opportunities start to widen. They are not afraid to learn new things and are open to anything that comes their way. They would also exhibit an interest in new experiences and challenges – things they are yet to encounter.
Yes, self-learning is a big step that you and your child are taking. But always keep in mind that this is one big step closer to your child’s success and to the achievement of his biggest dream.