How to Raise an Inquisitive Child

Babies are naturally curious as they have so much to learn about the world around them. It’s important for parents to foster this inquisitive nature to help their children become lifelong learners. Want to know how to raise an inquisitive child?

You can’t force it, but there are things you can do to help encourage your child to ask questions and think deeper about certain subject matters. I have teamed up with an international secondary school in Somerset to offer you some tips.

Role model inquisitiveness

You are your child’s biggest role model and it’s important to make use of this position in a positive way. Let your child hear you wondering aloud about things and asking questions about the world around you. For instance, if you’re out for a walk you could say “I wonder how many years old this tree is” or “I wonder if there are any rabbits hiding in those bushes”. The trick is to allow your child to understand how normal it is to be inquisitive about their experiences.

Encourage interests

Your child will demonstrate natural interests as they grow up, which you should encourage. For example, if they seem to like music, you could get them a little xylophone or keyboard to play with. You should also let them witness you pursuing your own interests. Teach them that it’s important to find hobbies to occupy our time and help us learn.

Ask their opinion first

When your child comes to you with questions, ask them what they think before you give them an answer. This will encourage them to think outside the box. If you don’t know the answer, use it as an opportunity for the two of you to do some research together. You could even take a trip to the library to try and find the answers in a book.