How To Support Your Child's Cognitive Abilities And Function

By P A GE Editor [Oct. 20, 2021]

Every parent wants the very best for their child, whether it's their health, education, relationships and more. You'll want them to have a great start in life, to develop well and to secure a great future.

It may be that you are concerned about how to support your child's cognitive abilities and function. Whilst the task can feel challenging and sometimes overwhelming, there are practical steps you can take to make the process easier and more effective. If you could do with a few tips on how to support your child right now, read on because this article is going to help you.

Use Online Resources

There's no need to struggle on your own when it comes to helping your child; there are many internet-based resources for parents and teachers to teach kids about emotions. You can find online courses and educational videos which you can easily access from anywhere at any time. There is also a lot of information on learning disabilities such as dyslexia, or specific difficulties that your child may have with math or reading comprehension.

Identifying dyslexia in children early can significantly benefit from the wealth of online resources available, offering both parents and educators tools for detection and support strategies. These digital platforms often include detailed guides on the signs to look for, interactive activities designed to engage children in ways that accommodate their learning differences, and connections to professional assessments.

Some websites specifically host educational support, whilst others are a one-stop resource for all things parent-related.

According to Katherine Rosman, parents are keen to learn more about everything from breastfeeding to the nursery, and from postpartum to baby gear. Whether it's reviews of breast pumps, baby monitors, baby carriers, and strollers or help with riddles for kids, the internet can support you.

Encourage Them With Their Schoolwork

There are several things you can do to encourage your child with their studies and help them succeed. First of all, talk about what they're working on at home, every night after dinner or before bedtime. This way they know that you care enough to listen and show interest in their work. If they are having a hard time in certain subjects, talk about it with their teachers and make sure you're both on the same page to help them get past this roadblock.

Secondly, spend time helping them where required, but let them find the answers and come up with the ideas rather than spoon-feeding them. Thirdly, setting up some sort of reward system for when homework gets done will definitely motivate them to study more. Rewards don't have to be extravagant either; maybe make something special for dinner once a week or let them stay up later on Friday night.

Create A Stimulating Environment

A stimulating environment is one that will challenge your child to grow, helping awaken their senses and creating an atmosphere for development. Before you start, it's important that you know what each age group needs in order to promote their learning. Think about providing toys and activities which encourage children's imaginations (e.g. dolls who can have tea parties or blocks which allow them to build anything they want). A learning environment also includes group play for social learning skills among peers (e.g. sharing and team play).

Spend time with your child while they draw pictures or make things with craft supplies. Make learning fun and read to them every day, introducing new vocabulary words over time. Buy educational books that are brightly colored and highly illustrated, or purchase interactive software that is engaging.

Buy Games Like Chess Or Puzzles

One way to support your child's problem-solving abilities is by playing games like chess or puzzles with them. These types of pastimes are great for encouraging critical thinking skills as well.

Some other examples are computer games that require you to solve things in order to go up a level, trivia puzzles, and word searches.

Provide Opportunities For Physical Activity

It's not only intellectual pursuits that are required to improve your child's cognitive abilities - physical activity is just as important. While physical education has been cut from an increasing number of schools, it should be encouraged in your home.

Physical activities include walking, running, or playing outside with friends and they can all improve coordination skills. They also enhance creativity skills and encourage social interaction. Providing opportunities for physical activity will have a positive impact on every area of your child's life including their memory retention, concentration levels, and even their physical performance later in life.

As you can see, there are many different ways you can help your child through the learning process. Let them know they're not alone during their school career and provide a home environment that supports their development. In return for the sacrifice and investment that you make in your child, they will reap the benefits and appreciate all you have done for them.