Turns out, we can actually teach in a way that’s compatible with our brain. \u00a0 And when we do, interest level increases, retention improves, and confidence builds all leading to more complex learning. \u00a0That’s the conclusion of decades of research about how our brain works.<\/p>\n
The good news is, brain-compatible teaching is not that difficult to do. \u00a0It all begins with designing an effective learning environment. \u00a0Here are 5 easy steps you can take to create an environment conducive to optimal learning:<\/p>\n
1. \u00a0Make Connections.\u00a0\u00a0In ed speak, we call this\u00a0using prior knowledge<\/em>\u00a0and it simply means that we relate new information to old, familiar information. \u00a0The content becomes more meaningful this way and allows for deeper learning to take place.<\/p>\n The Money Connection:\u00a0\u00a0Tie in an earlier money event with a real-time similar situation. Prior experience: \u00a0 “Remember when you accidentally lost the birthday money Grannie gave you?” New knowledge: \u00a0“If you put this Christmas money into an account at the credit union, your money will be a lot safer.”<\/p>\n If you don’t have any prior experiences to use, books are a great way to jump-start these conversations. \u00a0For example, in the book\u00a0Alexander Who Used to be Rich Last Sunday<\/em>, you can help your child make the connection between Alexander spending all his money and not being able to buy the walkie-talkies he wants and the fact that, “Just like Alexander, if you keep spending your money on those little items, you won’t have enough to buy that game you really want. \u00a0What are some things you\u00a0and<\/em>\u00a0Alexander could do to make it easier for you to save money?”<\/p>\n 2. \u00a0Tap into their Interests.\u00a0 We learn best when we’re engaged in interesting and meaningful activities that are connected to our every day lives. \u00a0That’s because the activities are real-world and personally relevant. \u00a0And when it’s all about us, we’re much more engaged and motivated to learn.<\/p>\n The Money Connection:\u00a0\u00a0Set up an allowance with your child and have her be responsible for all her discretionary spending. \u00a0Make sure the expectations and responsibilities are clear. Now step back and allow her to make the decisions about what happens to that money. \u00a0It’s about real experiences with real money. \u00a0She’ll learn about saving, spending wisely, borrowing, sharing, earning, and investing.<\/p>\n 3. \u00a0Ask Questions.\u00a0Ask lots and lots of questions. \u00a0The human brain was designed to think and problem solve. \u00a0So let it do its thing. \u00a0Not only does asking questions encourage critical thinking skills, but by asking your child to share her thoughts with you, you’re showing her that you value her thinking and believe in her ability to solve problems.<\/p>\n The Money Connection:\u00a0\u00a0Why did you choose to spend your money on that? \u00a0How could you get the money you need to buy that? \u00a0What are some ways to keep our money safe? \u00a0What would you like to be when you grow up? \u00a0What effect does advertising have on our needs and wants? \u00a0Is that item worth the money you spent on it? \u00a0Is ‘friendship’ a need? \u00a0Why do you think budgets are important?<\/em>\u00a0\u00a0It’s endless really.<\/p>\n 4. \u00a0Provide a Safe Climate for Learning.\u00a0 We don’t learn when we’re anxious, upset, or feel threatened. These negative emotions actually block information flow to the brain. \u00a0For real learning to take place, we need an environment free from the fear of embarrassment, judgement, or failure… a place where we feel loved and accepted.<\/p>\n The Money Connection:\u00a0\u00a0Money is a new experience for kids. \u00a0Because of that, they’re curious and are going to ask questions. \u00a0As openly, honestly, and developmentally appropriately as you can, answer their questions. \u00a0Aren’t sure? \u00a0Learn new things together. \u00a0Respect their desire to make their own money choices. \u00a0When they make mistakes, be there without judgement to guide them. \u00a0All of these build trust. \u00a0And trust builds confidence…something our kids will need to manage money effectively as adults.<\/p>\n 5. \u00a0Live a healthy lifestyle.\u00a0\u00a0Drink water. \u00a0Get regular exercise. \u00a0Sleep. \u00a0Eat your veggies. \u00a0This may seem like a no-brainer (!), but sometimes we forget how important these are to healthy brain development. \u00a0Teach these to your kids.<\/p>\n The Money Connection:\u00a0\u00a0Studies have actually shown that those who are physically healthy tend to be healthier in their finances, as well. \u00a0Now, simply eating broccoli isn’t going to make us great money managers, but making sure eating healthy is a part of your regular regime ties into self-discipline. \u00a0And self-discipline is a key ingredient when it comes to effectively managing money.<\/p>\n If you think about it, it’s pretty amazing that we can actually influence our environment in a way that allows for deeper learning to take place. \u00a0And now that we are equipped with this information, (thanks brain!), just think of the power we have to make a difference in how our children grow and develop.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" Turns out, we can actually teach in a way that’s compatible with our brain. \u00a0 And when we do, interest level increases, retention improves, and confidence builds all leading to more complex learning. \u00a0That’s the conclusion of decades of research about how our brain works. The good news is, brain-compatible teaching is not that difficult to do. \u00a0It all begins with designing an effective learning environment. \u00a0Here are 5 easy steps you can take to create an environment conducive to…<\/p>\n