The Learning Staircase

The Learning Staircase

Imagine that learning is like a giant staircase and each step represents a certain skill a child must learn to move forward.

Moving right along. If a child masters the skill, they proceed up the learning staircase without any difficulties. Leaning is easy, fun, and enjoyable.

The staircase becomes impossible to climb. If a child misses a few steps along the way, they may be able to make it up the staircase successfully. If a child misses several steps in a row followed by a few more steps, it becomes impossible to climb that staircase. The child has missed far too many steps and feels completely defeated, left behind, and often alone.

Take a step back when the staircase becomes impossible to climb. As parents, we want to help our children succeed. The first thing you can do is remove the pressure off of your child by taking a few steps back. Take them back to a time when a particular skill was easy. Let them have opportunities for success and help rebuild their confidence level. Let them know you are there for them and that you understand what they are going through.

Don’t be afraid to ask for extra help. Somewhere along the climb, your child had difficulty mastering some skills. It is critical to locate those skills in order for them to move forward with confidence. Don’t be afraid to use all your available resources. Talk to your child and their teachers to gather as much information as possible. Find a tutor or a professional tutor company. They are trained in dealing with these areas of difficulty. The time you invest now will help your child succeed in the future and help them become confident and successful learners.