Toddler Not Interested In Studying? How Parents Can Help Children Develop A Passion For Learning

Building a passion for learning is one of the keys to achieving success in life. Babies have the innate yearning to learn and explore more about their surroundings in themselves. They even got to a phase where they would always pop a question starting with "bakit..." (why...). But along the way, this curiosity and knack for learning can deplete. Some kids can also grow up dreading school or just sitting down to learn new things.

A mommy came forward to discuss this dilemma in our online parenting community. In our Facebook group, Smart Parenting Village, the mom enlists the help of other parents to get her 3-year-old child interested in studying. Although her child can distinguish basic numbers, shapes, animals, and colors, she says, her toddler is only attentive when learning via Youtube videos than through traditional learning materials such as books and educational charts.

The parent is also worried that her toddler is lagging in terms of language development. She shares, "Napakahilig niya sa physical playing. Puro takbo, laro ng lupa ang gusto niya. 3 na pero 'di pa rin po siya masyado makapagsalita."

How to deal with children not interested in studying

Building good study habits among children is definitely among the significant concerns of parents. As children's primary educators, it is the responsibility of moms and dads to guide their little ones to develop effective learning skills, which are crucial in their holistic development. So, what can parents do to make kids love learning, especially when they show signs of aversion to studies?

For starters, parents must remember that every child is unique; hence patience to explore new learning methods must be in order. More importantly, parents must accept that kids, especially younger ones, usually have a short attention span.

You should also not dismiss the benefits of play at this stage. Remember the saying, "all work, no play makes Jack a dull boy." In a previous article we published, we cited pediatric occupational therapist Angela Hanscom, who said that it is the "pre-academic" age — before 7 years old — that playtime is most crucial.

"[It is] when children desperately need to have a multitude of whole-body sensory experiences on a daily basis in order to develop strong bodies and minds. This is best done outside where the senses are fully ignited, and young bodies are challenged by the uneven and unpredictable, ever-changing terrain," she writes.

Tips to motivate children to study

In our parenting group, many parents are also concerned about their children's learning habits. Here are a few suggestions from them to help motivate and create interest in studies among kids.

1. Encourage learning through play

Many parents agree that playing can be the best form of learning during the toddler stage. Most parents said what worked for them was to innovate ways to disguise learning as playing.

"My 3-year-old daughter is the same. Based on various readings, toddlers 1-4 learn by playing. They have to be mobile because it is in their nature. Therefore, I assume kailangan ang learning strategy ay activities that keep them active." -Ginger A.

"Gawan mo mommy ng activity na akala nya ay naglalaro pa din siya pero natututo na siya. Like for example, gawa ka ng piko na drawing pero mga letters nakalagay tapos papatalunin mo siya dun." -Micah A.

"Hello mommy I am a believer po na free play is the best form of learning up to 4 yrs old. Dyan mo makikita what their interests and hobbies are." -Bhie T. 

2. Limit screen time

If you want attention, you also must give attention. While it's understandable for some parents to rely on Youtube or mobile applications to become their babysitter, real-life interaction must also be prioritized.

"Limit screen time. 1 hour per day lang po. Then gawa po kayo ng routine. Daily activities para masanay siya." -Dhea T.

3. Don't pressure your child

And don't pressure yourself as a parent. As mentioned earlier, each kid learn at their own pace.

"Sabi po ng teacher niya sakin nung kinder, hayaan ko lang daw po kasi po baby pa ung isip niya. May mga slow learner po talaga at fast learner. Ang anak ko po ay slow learner sya nabilang. Wag nyo po pilitin. Lalo po sya mawawalan ng interest sa pag aaral." -Diane P.

"Kanya-kanyang kasing pace ang bata, mom. Teacher ng toddlers here. Eventually, magsasalita rin yan. Don't pressure yourself and your child. Basta lagi mo kakausapin kahit di sumasagot naabsorb nila yan. Magugulat ka na lang biglang magsasalita si baby." -Marie R.

4. Don't be afraid to seek help

If you suspect development delay in your child, there's no harm in seeking the advice of a professional. This way, you can give your children the appropriate help they need.

Click here to know how you can determine the effective learning style that will suit your child best.