Children are fascinating; one minute, they want to be a pilot, and the next, a florist. Sometimes, it seems like they have no interest at all!
As a parent, finding out your child’s interest is more than providing entertainment. You want the best possible future for your child. Instead of ending up doing what they don’t like, you want them to grow to their full potential.
Luckily, several routes are available to know what are your child’s interests. Which ones are best for you to explore? Let’s find out.
1. Create a Sensory-Rich Environment
According to the Early Years Foundation Stage framework (EYFS), providing a safe and engaging environment is essential.
This is especially helpful during an early age. Make sure everything is safe and grabs your child’s attention and curiosity.
An environment filled with colours and textures inspires your child to explore. Pictures, toys, and natural elements such as plants are great examples.
Music is a great stimulus as well.
For personalisation, ask your child to help decorate the space. This way, you are also boosting their self-esteem.
2. Play Games
Playing games and exploration go hand in hand with your child’s development.
One of the greatest gamification methods is using open-ended materials, which refers to materials that have numerous uses. Some examples are: Building blocks, Water, Sand and Paint.
Also, pay attention to the games that provoke your child’s excitement. Some kids like board games, while others prefer bike riding.
Some of the best board games for kids are:
3. Pay Attention to Your Child’s Behaviour and Body Language
Compared to adults, children use more body language.
No one knows your child better than you do. You might have seen them getting excited playing with some toys or activities.
Knowing your kid’s interest is as easy as watching them do their favourite activity. It could be painting, building Legos, or wandering and fantasising about the shape of clouds.
4. Conversations Matter
Talking and having deep conversations with your child helps you get to know them better. Besides, talking provides numerous cognitive and language skills to your child. According to the National Library of Medicine, rich language experience strengthens processing skills.
A great strategy here is to ask open-ended questions. Such as “What did you like about the story?”
And remember, talking is a two-way road. Listening and responding are also powerful tools.
5. Expose, Explore and Express
In her successful book, The Gardener and the Carpenter, Dr Alison Gopnik says: Our job is not to shape our children’s minds; it’s to let those minds explore all the possibilities that the world allows.
What can you do? Provide opportunities for new experiences. New musical instruments, rock collecting, and creating comics are great examples.
This way, you’re helping your child to build life skills and find their own passion.
Extrinsic motivations are significant parts of your child’s interests. When you spot that spark of interest, it’s your job to provide the opportunity to explore.
Does your child show interest in art? Give them more art supplies. Visit art museums and express your admiration.
6. Foster Growth Mindset
The growth mindset believes that excellence comes with practice.
Encourage your child to see challenges as opportunities. This way, they will not give up on their interests.
Pay attention to resilience and perseverance. Let your child know that with effort, everything is possible. A great strategy is to remind them of their progress along the way.
However, don’t mistake effort for talent. Instead of praising your child on their talent or intelligence, admire their effort.
Also, you can find good tips in: What makes your child unique?
7. Go Online
You don’t always have to go over budget.
Numerous apps and websites are available to explore your child’s interests, from online music tours to documentaries and music learning apps.
Check out Sesame Street’s Website for online games and educational resources for kids.
8. Encourage Risk-Taking and Trying New Things
Children get bored. You don’t need to force them to do things they no longer like. When you find your child not showing interest, encourage them to step out of their comfort zone.
A safe learning environment is helpful. Remind them that it’s OK to make mistakes.
9. Create Opportunities to Share Interests
Sharing interests can boost your child’s confidence and deepen their engagement. School projects and clubs are great ways to start.
Talk to your child about their interests. This way, you will be more involved. Are they into music? Practise with them, and admire their effort.
10. USE Gardner’s Multiple Intelligences
Gardner’s theory suggests that every child has different types of intelligence, such as linguistic (word smart), logical-mathematical (number smart), bodily-kinesthetic (body smart), etc.
Observation is key here. If your child likes doing puzzles, they can be logical.
11. Encourage Decision Making
Give your children choices regarding the activities.
Instead of telling them to draw something, ask them, “Would you like to draw or watch a movie?” This way, you are sharpening their decision-making skills and promoting engagement.
Mistakes to Avoid When Discovering Your Child’s Interests
Some forbidden activities can prevent your child from exploring their interests. No matter how well-meaning, avoid:
- Labeling your early behaviour child (an athlete, a doctor etc.)
- Forcing interests.
- Overscheduling with various activities.
- Not listening to your child.
- Discouraging when they fail.
Why Your Kid’s Interests Are Important
It’s not common for children to be passionate about something. They need to explore things and take their time to master the tasks.
As a parent, you need to observe their behaviour for intrinsic motivation. By doing so, you will have a better understanding of your child’s development and interests.
Let’s take a look at some examples:
If your child likes playing with building blocks and is curious about the world, they might like STEM subjects.
Your child might show interest in reading, arts, or learning languages. Spotting these interests is what matters.
We can not decide our children’s future, but we can help them build their best.
How to do it? Tutoring is one of the most incredible ways to find out about your child’s interests. Tutors often have a new perspective regarding children’s interests.
Our online tutors at Ostado are here to help your child discover their passion through a love for learning. Tutoring is also a great way to understand your child’s learning style.
For your comfort of mind, we offer free trials.
Your Child’s Interests FAQ
- How do you assess children's interests?Observation is the first step. Spend time with your child. Try to identify what captures their interests. Talking is also important. Talk about their opinion on the activities and what they would like to do.
- What is the best interest for my child?What your child likes more. You can offer various activities from diverse areas. Notice what they like. No need to force hobbies.
- Why are children's interests important?Your child's interests offer a straight pathway toward child development; nurturing these interests helps build confidence and creativity and promotes personal growth.
- Toggle TitleToggle Content