Challenging Early Learning: Helping Young Children Learn How to Learn
The Learning Pit Series
What’s inside...
This book provides educators and parents with strategies to encourage young children to develop a love for learning. It emphasizes the importance of challenge, feedback, and the learning pit in fostering a growth mindset and resilience in children. The book shares the best strategies to help children grow into curious, resilient, happy, articulate, and thoughtful learners by applying James Nottingham's 'learning to learn' methodology for teaching three- to seven-year-olds. It covers a range of key topics such as feedback, dialogue, growth mindset, and the Learning Pit, and is aimed at all pedagogues, teachers, parents, and leaders wanting to challenge the way we learn and make learning more challenging.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
3-5
Length
194 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What are some new things you learned from this book?
Can you think of a time when you tried something challenging? How did it make you feel?
How do you think learning difficult things can help you?
Who are some people who can help you when you face tough tasks?
What would you like to learn more about after reading this book?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before starting the conversation, ensure your child feels comfortable and listened to, creating an open environment for sharing thoughts.
Relate the questions to your child's experiences to make the discussion more relatable and engaging.
Encourage your child to ask questions about the topics discussed and explore the answers together.
Praise efforts in learning and understanding rather than just correct answers to foster a growth mindset.
Summarize the key points discussed to reinforce learning and ensure comprehension.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Developing a Growth Mindset
Explanation: The book encourages children to see learning as an evolving process where challenges are opportunities for growth.
Real-World Application: Children can approach difficult subjects at school with curiosity and resilience, fostering a lifelong love for learning.
Example Lesson: The Value of Perseverance
Explanation: Through engaging stories, children are taught the importance of persisting through difficulties to achieve their goals.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children to not give up easily on their tasks whether it be finishing a puzzle or learning a new skill.
Example Lesson: Importance of Asking Questions
Explanation: Children are shown how asking questions is vital in gaining deeper understanding and knowledge.
Real-World Application: Kids learn to be inquisitive about the world around them, enhancing their analytical skills and understanding.
Example Lesson: Collaborative Learning
Explanation: The book highlights how working together with peers can facilitate learning and discovery.
Real-World Application: This can be applied in group activities at school, teaching children how to effectively collaborate and respect others' ideas.
Example Lesson: Building Confidence Through Knowledge
Explanation: Children learn that being well-informed and knowledgeable can boost their confidence and self-esteem.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to engage in learning activities, discussions, and presentations at school, boosting their confidence.