In early childhood, children never cease to surprise us with how much they pick up and learn from their environment and how fast they pick up on new things. Perhaps it is a natural curiosity that triggers an instinctive need to absorb, learn and adapt to the environment.

This is why nature or genetics is just as important as nurture in early childhood learning and development. However, later on as the children get older and form their own preferences and interests, they are bound to learn some things easier than others.

I always find that my own children and others in the family tend to have differing interests. However when it comes to school and education, especially in this day and age, the more exposed a child is to different subjects and interests; the better it is for them. Naturally, with greater exposure, odds are greater that a child will find something that they are good at and enjoy doing.

Contrary to popular belief, creating a good learning environment is neither expensive nor complicated. Education and learning for your child are everywhere, not only at school but also at home and in every situation in which the child lives. You can always take advantage of the moments you spend with your child to learn things, share and play together, thus creating a fun learning environment. All you need is love, patience (a lot of it) and enthusiasm.

Learning with your children through play can be a lot of fun. In my humble opinion, the parent is the first and best teacher. From research, reading, documentaries and even taking from my own childhood experiences I have picked up a few easy ways to help me along as I try to always create a positive learning environment. They may not work for everyone but they have worked for me.

Enjoy the game

While it is true that most children follow the same basic patterns of learning,   it is also true that there are many differences too. Some children learn best when they listen and see information, while others learn by doing and practicing. Take the time to do things with your child and learn how they are best motivated to learn. No matter the method, what is really important is that your child is encouraged to play, learn and explore the world around him.

Read aloud

Reading aloud to your child helps them imagine what they are listening to. It will also greatly improve their vocabulary. In other words, the word power of a two-year-old child is proportional to the number of words they have heard spoken. Children may not be able to respond verbally when they are young, but they can usually understand what they hear.

Use the music

Research studies show that children who study a musical instrument develop better verbal skills and greater dexterity (hand co-ordination). Other research also shows that music improves memory in general so use songs and rhymes often.

There are many things you can do to encourage your child, but the important thing is that they are moments of fun for them. Eventually the children develop their own skills, along with what you teach them.