by Jessi Michaels

Created on: August 30, 2009   Last Updated: September 05, 2009

When you reflect on your own life what are the things that you enjoy most.? How were you introduced to these areas? Most likely you had positive experiences with many of your favorites from the time you were quite young.Children are natural sponges, they are also intuitive and quick to pick up on vibes, both good and bad.. As both a teacher and a mom, I have learned that your reaction to different life experiences, will play a very important role in the development of how your child does the same.

Learning begins at birth, therefore. as the adults in a child's formative years we have the chance to instill a love of life-long learning. Approach the foundations of learning enthusiastically. When you communicate with your infant, do so in a variety of ways. Smile, talk, sing and allow them to interact followed by a warm, gentle touch, a kiss ad a softly spoken "I love you". As your child develops, provide them with language rich experiences. Read books as often as possible, make this a time of cuddling, laughing and connecting. Wonderful memories are created here. Do not be afraid to be silly, kids love silly! Read that favorite book using different voices, follow up on the story with drawing or another expressive experience.

The foundation of learning in all subjects can be introduced through play and it should continue to be taught that way in school as well. Piling pots and pans on top of each other, or blocks, teach children about size differences, weight, balance, gravity, counting, and language. It doesn't take an expensive toy or video game to expose your child to the tools of joyful learning. Fun and interesting time spent with people they love and feel safe with are the real tools of building a love of learning and of life. A non-threatening environment, where mistakes are not only allowed but appreciated enable children to take learning risks. One of the most joyful times in my primary classroom is when the children catch me making a mistake. It is empowering for them and it is a chance for me to show them that I can handle being wrong, laugh about it and learn from it.

Your child's first and most important teacher is you. An awesome responsibility, I know, but it does not and should not be one coated in fear and neurotic worry. Remember, children are keenly aware of your response to things. Please believe me when I tell you this awesome responsibility can be one of the most joyful fulfilling gifts of parenting.

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