For the first year or two of life outside the womb, our
brains are in the most impressionable state they will ever be in. A
baby’s brain is immediately shaped by interacting with their
environment. As a parent, one can have a large influence on their
newborns first encounters with learning.

The mind learns optimally when appropriately challenged in an
environment that encourages taking risks. However, under perceived
threat, the mind does not perform as well. This makes it harder to
learn when you are nervous, stressed, or not feeling well.

Before a child learns to talk, they experience emotions.
Emotions are another source for improving memory. People are better at
recalling stories that held strong feelings. The emotional context
plays an important role in the learning process. People with excellent
memories have multiple interests. We naturally remember what we are
interested in. As a parent, it is crucial to teach your child the value
of learning.

Motivation is the key to learning. You can help your child to
discover this thirst of knowledge before they even enter school. Here
are some key steps in preparing your child to be a stellar student:

1. Fill your home with reading. Read to your child daily.
   Fill your home with reading material such as novels, newspapers, and
   educational magazines. A child is influenced by their surroundings.
   When a son or daughter sees a parent reading at a young age, it makes
   an impression. As parents, we can foster that with a love for learning.
   Parents are the most important modeling agent in a child’s life.
2. Encourage your child to explore his or her interests. If
   you have a son who loves animals, offer him some educational books
   about animals. If he’s young, allow him to explore the world Of the
   National Geographic Magazines. You could also direct him to some
   websites that explore animal facts. You’re enthusiasm over your child
   is motivation in itself.
3. Provide play opportunities that offer different types of
   learning styles. Play is one of the most powerful vehicles through
   which children master new skill, concepts, and experiences. This will
   help them solve the challenges they meet in school. Through the use of
   blocks, your child will develop his or her creative expression and
   problem solving skills. A cash register would help them recreate their
   own experiences. However, boxes of various sizes can be great toys that
   encourage your child to be creative in his or her creations.
4. When your child starts school, make sure that they are organized. An organized folder lends To an organized mind.
   
5. Celebrate
   achievements. Reward your child for large and small achievements,
   whether it’s finishing a book or completing a major assignment in
   school. Positive reinforcement encourages a child to continue to
   challenge themselves.
6. Use everyday event as learning opportunities.Encourage your
   child to explore his/her world. Continually ask questions and make
   connections that build upon their existing knowledge. The brain learns
   through associations.
   
   

As a central role model, moms and dads have the responsibility to create an environment that fosters a love for learning.