How to Promote Curiosity in Kids

The questions seem endless when you have kids, but the sometimes annoying string of inquiries shows a strong sense of curiosity that could benefit your child. Curiosity aids kids in learning more about a topic and remembering that information, advises Susan Engel, lecturer in psychology at Williams College, in an article on curiosity on the website of the ACSD, a global community dedicated to excellence in teaching and learning. By promoting curiosity, you give your child the confidence to dig deeper and try new things. The way you interact with your child and support his interests is key in boosting curiosity.

Things You'll Need

  • Creative materials
  • Toys

Instructions

    • 1

      Spark your own curiosity about a topic that interests you. Show your child that you are interested and want to learn more about something, whether it's a new cooking technique, an event in history or a new work skill. Seeing you get excited about where your curiosity leads you is a simple way to spark your child's curiosity.

    • 2

      Show excitement about your child's interests. Listen to the things he talks about. Notice what draws his attention. Encourage him to read more on the topic or do a project related to it. If he loves nature, let him lead the family on a hike through the woods. The lack of an adult to care about his discoveries causes a decrease in curiosity, according to Dr. Bruce Duncan Perry, a medical doctor with a doctorate in psychology, in an article in "Early Childhoood Today" magazine, reprinted by Scholastic.

    • 3

      Get over your own fears or dislikes if they get in the way of your child's curiosity. If you avoid the reptile house at the zoo because you can't stand snakes, you take away your child's chance to watch the animals and learn about them. Parents often say, "No," when it comes to activities that are messy or time-consuming. Before you say, "No," ask yourself if the activity is actually dangerous or just inconvenient. Limiting your child's activities based on convenience can extinguish her curiosity.

    • 4

      Support your child's exploration and encourage safe risk-taking. Encourage him to continue exploring a topic. Some children become hesitant or are afraid to go outside their comfort zones, according to Perry. Provide the encouragement to nudge him gently out of his comfort zone.

    • 5

      Answer questions your child asks. If she asks something that you don't know, look up the answer together. This shows her how to follow her own curiosities. Ask your own questions to encourage your child to think deeper about things. If your child loves dinosaurs, ask, "How do you think a T-Rex would spend his day?"

    • 6

      Supply your child with materials and toys that encourage exploration or new activities. Ideas include art supplies, knitting needles and yarn, chemistry sets, experiment books, tools, microscopes or model kits.

    • 7

      Engage your child in active play and exploration. Limit the amount of time he spends sitting around or watching TV. Plan active family time to keep everyone moving and exploring.

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