There’s a simple, yet invaluable little tip I want to share to help kids learn new concepts. It’s the three period lesson. While this is definitely Montessori talk, it is so useful for every parent when teaching their child the names of colors, animals, number recognition, alphabet recognition, etc.
The three steps help move your child from introduction of a concept to mastery while ensuring their comfort, confidence, and success. The three periods are:
- Introduction/Naming – In this first period, you give the descriptor that you are teaching: “This is a cow.”
- Association/Recognition – In this period, the child is asked to show the object within a larger group of objects: “Show me the cow.” This is the most important period and should last until your child is always successful. The next period is a bigger cognitive leap.
- Recall – This is when you ask your child to name the object. Pointing to the cow you say, “what is this?“
This can be used with books, pictures, postcards, objects, etc.
Adults tend to rush this process. There is much (too much for this post) to be said about moving slowly and following your child’s zing. Your child will learn the quickest and be most successful not through pushing her at a fast pace, but through moving at her speed.
Take it slow to ensure success, rather than constantly correcting and starting over. Too much correction quickly leads to the child feeling frustrated, incapable, and giving up. Focus on each period for an extended time until you are certain of your child’s mastery. You will be amazed and delighted with how easily and painlessly various concepts and ideas can be taught.
There are many fun games that can stem from this to teach young ones (toddlers and preschoolers) basic concepts. I’d love to hear your ideas!
