Teaching vs. testing

Kids, teenagers, college students, and adults can all agree that tests are stressful! Which is why we want to avoid testing our little ones. We may not give them a test on paper, but sometimes it may feel like we’re testing them when we ask too many questions.

Maybe you’re reading a book with your child and you’re trying to get them talking. “What animal is that?” “What sound does it make?” “What color is it?” “What’s it doing?” “How many are there?” They may know the answers, but when they’re put on the spot to produce a “right” response, the pressure can make them shut down.

What to do instead: teach! Talk to them about what you see and expose them to new ideas and concepts. Feel comfortable giving some pause time to allow them a chance to speak. When we shift from “testing mode” to “teaching mode” we can engage them more easily, encourage them to try new things, and open up more opportunities for them to initiate communication.

Parents, you are your child’s favorite teacher! So take the pressure off you and them and let them learn and grow at their own speed.