Parents entrust their children’s growth and development to their educators, who play a significant role in shaping their future. 

While the classroom is where learning happens, it is essential for parents to understand the educational strategies teachers use and how these methods impact children’s learning.

In this article, we will explore several effective teaching strategies that educators employ to nurture student success. Let’s break them down in a parent-friendly way so that you can engage with your child's learning journey, support their education, and even replicate some of these techniques at home.

1. Turn Your Students into Bookworms with Reciprocal Teaching

Reading isn't always a page-turner for every student. But what if there was a way to make even the most reluctant reader excited about books? 

Enter reciprocal teaching.

This technique doesn't just get students reading; it gets them thinking about what they're reading. Instead of passively absorbing information, students become active participants in the learning process. 

They predict what's coming, ask questions, reread for clarity, and summarize key points.

And the best part? Reciprocal teaching isn't just for language arts. It can be adapted for subjects like math too. 

One study found that using this technique in math class can help students better understand word problems and tackle questions with confidence.

2. Active Learning: Getting Students Involved

Back in school, which lessons stood out? Likely, the ones where that demanded your involvement – whether it was building a model, participating in a group project, or acting out a historical event. 

So, what exactly is active learning?

Active learning engages students in the process of learning through activities and discussions rather than passively receiving information. It encourages curiosity and critical thinking.

For instance, in a history class, rather than simply reading about a historical event, students might act it out or debate its causes and effects. 

In a math class, they might solve real-world problems rather than just memorize formulas.

How can parents support it at home?

• Encourage your child to explore hands-on activities related to what they’re learning in school. If they’re studying plants, for example, try gardening together.
• Ask them open-ended questions about their schoolwork, such as, 

“Why do you think that happened?”  

“How would you solve this differently?”

• Support teachers who use creative methods by providing feedback to schools on the value you see in active learning approaches.

3. Scaffolding: Building Knowledge Step by Step

Was learning a new skill overwhelming? Now, think how a child feels when they’re faced with an entirely new concept. 

To make the process smoother, teachers use a technique called scaffolding.

What is it? 

Scaffolding breaks down learning into manageable chunks and provides support at each stage. 

For instance, teaching a child how to ride a bike. 

At first, you hold the bike steady for them. Slowly, you let go of one hand, then the other, until they’re riding on their own. 

Scaffolding works the same way in learning. Teachers might start by showing a student how to solve a math problem, then guide them through the next few, and eventually, the student solves problems independently.

How can parents support it at home?

When helping your child with homework, start by showing them how to do one problem, then encourage them to do the next few with your support.

Connect your child with a dedicated mentor at Mentor Match who will break complex tasks into smaller, more manageable steps and offer encouragement along the way.

4. Positive Reinforcement: Encouraging Effort and Growth

Children thrive when their efforts are recognized. One of the most powerful educational strategies in the classroom is positive reinforcement. 

Whether through verbal praise, stickers, or a classroom reward system, teachers know the importance of acknowledging students' achievements and progress.

What is it? 

Positive reinforcement involves acknowledging and rewarding desirable behavior or effort to encourage its repetition. 

For instance, a teacher might praise a student for turning in their homework on time or for helping a classmate, reinforcing that these actions are valued.

How can parents support it at home?

• Create a reward system at home, whether it’s praise, extra screen time, or a small treat for effort rather than just results.
• Praise your child not only for achieving good grades but also for the effort they put into their studies.
• Focus on encouraging a growth mindset: rather than saying, “You’re so smart,” try saying, “You worked really hard on that!” This encourages children to see effort as the path to success.

Also Read: 2 in 3 children feel anxious about homework: 5 tips to make homework a fun activity

5. Collaborative Learning

In today’s world, the ability to work well with others is crucial. 

Educators often incorporate collaborative learning into their classrooms to help students develop teamwork skills and enhance their understanding of topics through peer interaction.

What is it? 

Collaborative learning involves students working together in small groups to complete tasks or solve problems. By discussing ideas and working through challenges together, they build communication, negotiation, and leadership skills.

How can parents support it at home?

• Encourage group activities where your child works with siblings, friends, or classmates. This could be as simple as a family board game or as complex as a science experiment.
• In conversations with your child, promote the idea that learning from others and helping others learn are valuable experiences.
• If possible, set up study groups with your child’s peers for difficult subjects, reinforcing that learning is a team effort.

Also Read: Balance in Personalized Tutoring: Nurturing Academic and Social Growth

6. Formative Assessment

When you think of assessment, exams and grades probably come to mind. 

However, teachers use a less formal and ongoing method known as formative assessment to check students' progress throughout the school year.

What is it? 

Formative assessment is one of the educational strategies for assessing students’ understanding during the learning process. 

Rather than waiting for the final exam, teachers might ask questions, give quizzes, or review students' work to ensure they’re on track.

How can parents support it at home?

• Frequently ask your child what they are learning and how they feel about it. Doing so allows parents to provide help early if needed.
• Work with teachers to understand your child’s strengths and areas where they may need additional support, so parents can reinforce those lessons at home.

7. Flexible Seating

More schools are moving away from traditional rows of desks in favor of flexible seating. This might mean students work at standing desks, on beanbags, or at small group tables. 

The idea is to create a learning environment where students feel comfortable and can focus better.

But Why?

• Flexible seating allows students to choose where and how they work best. 
• This can help students who may feel fidgety or need to change positions to stay focused. 
• It encourages independence and personal responsibility, as students select the setting that allows them to be most productive.

How can parents support it at home?

• Create a flexible learning environment in your home. If your child has a desk but prefers working on the floor or a couch, allow them to choose the best space for their study.
• Encourage small breaks during study time to help them stay refreshed and focused.

If you're interested in more tips to make your child study smarter, read our blog- Tips to Study Smarter for Achieving Academic Success

8. Media Literacy

In today's digital world, students are bombarded with media from all angles. 

Media literacy empowers students to critically analyze and understand the messages they consume.Here are some fun and engaging activities to spark media literacy in your classroom:

• Logo Dissection: Have students bring in their favorite brand logos and decode the hidden meanings. Discuss what the logo says about the brand's values and target audience.
• Build A Cereal Brand: Challenge students to create their own cereal brand by designing a logo, developing a slogan, and calculating the cost per serving.
• Advertising Experts: Dive into advertising by analyzing magazines or online ads. Identify persuasive techniques and question the claims made.

By incorporating these activities into your curriculum, you'll help your students become more discerning consumers of media and develop essential critical thinking skills.

How can parents support it at home?

• Discuss the TV shows, movies, games, and social media platforms your child is using.
• Ask your child about their thoughts and emotions regarding the media they consume.
• Encourage your child to critically analyze the messages presented in the media.
• Discuss the importance of responsible media consumption and digital citizenship.

9. Convergent vs. Divergent Thinking: A Battle of the Brains

Ever wondered why some questions have only one right answer while others seem to have endless possibilities? That's where convergent and divergent thinking come into play.

Convergent thinking is like a puzzle with just one missing piece. You need to gather all the clues and fit them together to find the solution. Think multiple-choice questions or simple math problems.

On the other hand, divergent thinking is like exploring a vast, unknown territory. Starting from one point, you branch out in different directions, coming up with creative and unique ideas. Essay writing, brainstorming, and creative analysis are examples of divergent thinking.

Here’s a table that categorizes the activities for convergent and divergent thinking. 

Conclusion

Why wouldn’t parents feel happy if they see their child burst through the door, eager to share what they’ve learned because they genuinely enjoyed it?

That’s the magic of effective educational strategies! These approaches turn the classroom into a playground of discovery, where learning becomes an adventure rather than a chore. 

Ask your child’s teacher about the educational strategies they use, and communicate regularly. As parents, you’re the cheerleaders in this journey. 

Undoubtedly when teachers and parents team up to support these engaging educational strategies, they can set children up for success! 

But when you connect your child with an expert mentor at Mentor Match, you're giving them a tailored guide who will help turn challenges into stepping stones for their brightest future yet!

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