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As a parent, you want your teenager to feel confident and self-assured. However, how to build confidence and self esteem in a teenager can be a challenging task, especially during the teenage years.

The teenage years are a time of great change, and they have to face situations that challenge their self-beliefs. During this period, a teen’s brain goes through a process of reorganisation that can leave both parents and teens feeling bewildered, drained, and perplexed.

This guide will explore practical strategies and tools parents can use to help their teenagers develop a positive self-image and build self-esteem.

1. Knowing Yourself with SWOT

To boost your teenager’s self-esteem, use SWOT analysis to help your teenager gain a better understanding of themselves.

SWOT is a strategic planning and management technique commonly used in business. However, it is also useful for personal development. SWOT stands for Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats.

Strengths

• Questions:
  1. What are the teenager’s talents or skills?
  2. What positive traits do others often point out about the teenager?
  3. What achievements is the teenager proud of?
• Examples:
  1. The teenager might be good at sports, arts, or academics.
  2. Others might often compliment the teenager’s kindness or creativity.
  3. The teenager might have won awards or competitions.

Weaknesses

• Questions:
  1. What are the areas the teenager struggles with?
  2. What constructive criticism does the teenager often receive?
  3. Are there any negative habits the teenager wants to change?
• Examples:
  1. The teenager might struggle with public speaking or time management.
  2. Teachers or peers might suggest the teenager needs to be more organised.
  3. The teenager might want to reduce procrastination or improve study habits.

Opportunities

• Questions:
  1. What resources or people could help the teenager improve their self-esteem?
  2. Are there upcoming events or activities that could boost the teenager’s confidence?
  3. Can the teenager turn their weaknesses into opportunities for growth?
• Examples:
  1. The teenager could join clubs, find mentors, or use online resources to build self-esteem.
  2. Participating in a school play or sports event could boost the teenager’s confidence.
  3. The teenager could take a public speaking course to overcome their fear and improve their skills.

Threats

• Questions:
  1. What external factors could harm the teenager’s self-esteem?
  2. Are there any negative influences the teenager should avoid?
  3. What challenges could the teenager face in their journey to build self-esteem?
• Examples:
  1. Cyberbullying or peer pressure could harm the teenager’s self-esteem.
  2. Teenagers should avoid negative influences like toxic friends or harmful media content.
  3. The teenager might face challenges like setbacks, failures, or negative feedback.

By identifying these aspects, you can help your child focus on their strengths, work on areas that need improvement, seize growth opportunities, and navigate potential threats to their self-esteem.

2. Applying Self-esteem Sentence Completion to Yourself

There are common signs that may indicate low self-esteem. Recognising these signs is the first step towards building a healthier self-image and achieving greater self-confidence.

Figure out how to make your shy child confident.

Here are some typical signs of poor self-esteem:

• Think others are better than you.
• Feel bad for what you do.
• Say sorry a lot.
• Think everything is your fault.
• Don’t like to be with people.
• Get mad when someone says something bad about you.
• Feel unhappy, scared, ashamed, mad, or not good enough.

As a parent, you can create a safe and non-judgmental space for your children, encouraging them to open communication, actively listen, and be ready to provide guidance or assistance if needed. An effective strategy is to engage your teenager in completing sentences that focus on positive self-reflection, like engaging and completing this worksheet:

• I am so happy now because________________________ • A goal I’ve always had is ___________________________ • I frequently anticipate ______________________________ • I derive power from ________________________________ • I take secret pleasure in ____________________________ • An accomplishment of mine today _______________________ • I enjoyed myself today when __________________________ • I felt a sense of pride when ________________________ • My achievement for today ____________________________ • I had a positive interaction with this individual _____________ • An act of kindness I did ____________________________ • I felt positive about myself when _______________________ • The interesting aspect of today was __________________

For just 5 minutes, 2-3 times a week, to complete the worksheet, your child can explore their thoughts and feelings. By doing so, they can better understand their strengths and capabilities. Over time, completing the worksheet regularly can lead to noticeable positive changes in their responses, an effective way to help a teenager with low self-esteem.

3. Creating a Journal to Build Self-esteem and Confidence in Teens

Keeping a self-esteem journal is a great way to build self-confidence in teenagers, build self-esteem, and cultivate a positive outlook. This journal includes three sentence completion prompts for each day of the week, from Monday to Sunday.

By following these prompts, teens can reflect on their accomplishments, identify positive traits and characteristics, and recognise the good things in their lives. For example:

Monday:

• One thing I did great at today was getting a high mark on my math test.
• Today I played basketball with my friends, and I’m so happy.
• I admire how I stood up for my beliefs during a class discussion.

Tuesday:

• Today, I did the household chores.
• I had a nice time when I went for a walk with my dog.
• I help an old man cross the street.

Wednesday:

• I did great at making a new friend in my English class today.
• Today, I was trying a new cake recipe.
• I was patient when listening to my younger sister’s story.

4. Brainstorming Affirmations to Encourage Positive Self-Talk

Brainstorming affirmations to encourage positive self-talk is a technique to help teenagers build their confidence and self-esteem. Affirmations are positive statements that reinforce one’s beliefs or challenge negative thoughts. They can help improve self-awareness in teenagers, cope with stress, and focus on their strengths and goals.

To create effective affirmations, follow these tips:

• Include emotions and feelings that the situation or goal would evoke.
• Repeat the affirmations daily, preferably in the morning and at night, and say them with conviction and enthusiasm.

Using these tips, you can create affirmations that reflect your personal goals and aspirations.

By repeating these affirmations daily, you can reinforce positive self-talk and build self-esteem. For example:

Goal: To develop my public speaking abilities.

Affirmations:

• I am confident and articulate when speaking in front of others.
• I am a skilled and engaging presenter.
• I am at ease and relaxed when giving a speech.

Goal: To be more assertive in my relationships.

Affirmations:

• I am comfortable expressing my needs and boundaries.
• I am assertive and respectful in my interactions with others.
• I am confident in advocating for myself and my rights.

5. Questioning Yourself to Learn Deeply about Self-Confidence and Self-Esteem

Encouraging teenagers to ask themselves questions is a great way to build their confidence and self-esteem. These questions should help them reflect on their strengths, values, goals, and emotions, which in turn can boost their self-esteem and facilitate self-awareness, positive thinking, and personal growth.

There are many types of questions you can ask yourself, such as:

Self-exploration questions:

Explore your interests, talents, strengths, values, goals, and traits with these questions and examples that help you identify what makes you happy and satisfied:

• What are you most proud of?
• What are your strengths and weaknesses?
• What do you value most?
• What are you passionate about?

Self-affirmation questions:

These questions can help you feel better about yourself by reminding you of all the great things you can do and how awesome you are. They can improve your self-confidence and self-esteem, so give them a try!

• What do you do well?
• What are you grateful for?
• What positive feedback have you received lately?
• What are some compliments you can give yourself?

Self-improvement questions:

These questions aim to boost your skills and well-being by helping you set goals and plan actions. They can enhance your self-confidence and self-esteem by encouraging you to chase your dreams, tackle obstacles, and learn from your journey. For instance:

• What are your short-term and long-term goals?
• What are the steps you need to take to achieve them?
• What are some skills or hobbies you want to learn or improve?
• What are some habits or behaviors you want to change or adapt?

Self-reflection questions:

Here are some questions that can assist you in evaluating your thoughts, feelings, and actions in various situations. These can help you to manage stress, and learn from your mistakes. Let’s discuss a few examples:

• How do you feel about yourself today?
• What are some challenges or successes you faced this week?
• How did you handle them? What did you learn from them?
• What are some things you can do to improve your mood or situation?

6. Practising to handle your own Self-Esteem and Confidence based on actual scenarios

Improving self-esteem and confidence involves practicing how to handle challenging situations that affect your self-image. Imagining coping strategies can prepare you for real-life scenarios and develop positive skills.

Here are some examples of scenarios that might affect your self-esteem and confidence:

Scenario: You have a big test coming up, but you feel like you are not smart enough and you will fail

Possible ways to handle it:

• Challenge your negative thoughts and replace them with positive ones, such as “I can do this” or “I have studied hard, and I know the material.”
• Plan a study schedule and stick to it, breaking down the material into manageable chunks and reviewing it regularly.
• Seek help from your teacher, tutor, or classmates if you are stuck or confused about something.
• Relax and take care of yourself before the test, such as getting enough sleep, eating well, and doing something that calms you down.

Scenario: You want to join a sports team or a club, but you feel like you are not good enough or you will be rejected

Possible ways to handle it:

• Identify your interests and passions, and find a team or a club that matches them.
• Research the requirements and expectations of the team or club, and see if you meet them or can work towards them.
• Talk to someone who is already in the team or club, and ask them about their experience and advice.
• Be brave and apply or audition for the team or club, and accept the outcome, whatever it is.

Scenario: You have a crush on someone, but you feel like you are not attractive or interesting enough to ask them out

Possible ways to handle it:

• Recognise your own worth and beauty, and don’t compare yourself to others or unrealistic standards.
• Focus on your common interests and hobbies, and try to start a conversation with them about something you both enjoy.
• Be yourself and show your personality, humour, and kindness.
• Respect their feelings and boundaries, and don’t take rejection personally. Remember that there are many other people who will appreciate you for who you are.

7. Practising to Promote Other Teens’ Self-Esteem and Confidence based on Actual Scenarios

Boosting your own self-esteem and confidence can be achieved by helping others to do the same. You can make a positive difference in their lives and yours by being supportive, encouraging, and kind to your peers. Here are some examples:

Scenario: You notice a classmate who is struggling with a math problem and looks frustrated

Possible ways to handle it:

• Offer to help them with the problem or explain how you solved it.
• Praise their effort and persistence, and remind them that math skills can be improved with practice.
• Share a time when you faced a similar challenge and how you overcame it.

Scenario: You see a friend who is being bullied or teased by another group of students

Possible ways to handle it:

• Ask your teacher for support/help to stop bullies.
• Comfort your friends and let them know they deserve to be protected and safe in school.
• Compliment your friends on their strengths and qualities, and remind them that the bullies’ words are not true.

Summing Up

In conclusion, developing confidence and self-esteem in a teenager requires a cooperative and considerate effort from parents, teachers, and friends.

To help teenagers understand their strengths and weaknesses, fostering a positive self-image and resilience. Regular practice will help them navigate challenges confidently, guiding them to become self-assured adults.

Explore UNIS Hanoi for more helpful information. Our approach, especially through our IB Programmes, deeply integrates understanding complex development and embedding core values.

Enrol now for an enriching journey where morals and values are actively practised and experienced.

In the same way, you meticulously looked for the safest baby gear and the most nurturing child-rearing practices before your child entered the world, choosing the right elementary school requires equal, if not more, attention and care.

When asking yourself, “How to choose elementary school?”, consider your child’s distinct personality and love for learning. Every child is unique, and the best school for them is the one that kindles their enthusiasm for learning and discovery.

You can assess your child’s specific needs alongside what your family can offer. Following this, the guide leads you through exploring various types of schools, gathering important information, and making insightful school visits.

Step 1: Understand the Importance of Choosing The Right Elementary School Can Shape University Future

When tackling the question of how to choose elementary school, consider how it shapes your child’s educational journey toward the university. It’s where critical thinking, social skills, and personal interests begin to flourish, and it is also the first significant step in guiding them towards academic excellence and setting the stage for a successful and enriching university experience.

Research highlights several outcomes for children who attend high-quality elementary school:

• Development of Essential Skills: These formative years help to build strong cognitive, social, and emotional abilities, which are foundational for academic success and overall well-being.
• Improved Academic Performance: Children in such schools often excel in standardised tests and demonstrate higher graduation rates, thanks to an environment that nurtures their academic potential.
• Diverse and Enriching Curriculum: Exposure to a curriculum that encourages creativity, curiosity, and critical thinking is fundamental in these early years, setting the tone for a child’s educational attitude.
• Personalised Attention from Educators: Quality elementary education often involves individualised support from dedicated and qualified teachers, pivotal in nurturing each child’s unique talents and needs.
• Positive Learning Attitudes and Habits: Early experiences in a supportive educational setting foster a lifelong love for learning and positive attitudes towards school.

Step 2: Define your Child’s Needs and Family’s Ability

Choosing the right elementary school for your child is a lot like finding the perfect pair of shoes for a growing child. It needs to fit just right – not too tight, not too loose, supporting every step they take. This step involves understanding what your child needs from their educational journey and what your family can realistically provide.

Here are some important questions to mull over, like puzzle pieces fitting together to complete the big picture:

1. What’s the Best Learning Setting for Your Child?
   • Does your child do better with clear rules and routines, or do they need a place where they can learn more freely?
   • Would a school that really values creativity be the best fit for your child?
2. Academic Needs:
   • Is your child always hungry for more challenging work?
   • Does your child need an extra hand or more time with their schoolwork?
3. Attention and Support:
   • Does your child thrive with more personal attention from teachers?
   • Are there any special ways your child needs to be taught?
4. Language and Special Needs:
   • Does your child need help learning English or support for other special learning needs?
   And then, think about what your family can do.
5. Your Family’s School Values:
   • What’s important to your child in school?
   • What kind of education do you want for your child?
6. Practical Stuff:
   • How far can you travel for your child’s school? Does it need to be near your work or their after-school care?
7. Budgeting for School:
   • How much can you spend on your child’s education?

Matching with a School like UNIS Hanoi

With these factors in mind, consider how a school like UNIS Hanoi might fit.

We’re known for our welcoming and diverse community, a place where academic challenges meet creative freedom.

At UNIS Hanoi, we focus on nurturing every aspect of a child’s growth, embracing both personal and academic growth.

Step 3: Explore the Different Types of Schools

Each type of school offers a different path with its own set of strengths and considerations; choose one that aligns with your child’s needs and your family’s expectations.

Public School

Public schools, which do not charge tuition, are financed by government funds at the federal, state, and local levels. Enrolment in these schools is generally based on the student’s living area. They are bound to meet a range of standards, including having certified teachers and adhering to specific curriculum and policy guidelines set by state and local authorities. The size of classes and the availability of extracurricular activities in public schools can vary from one location to another.

Charter Schools

Charter schools are a type of public school that offers more choice and flexibility. They are not bound by many of the regulations that traditional public schools must follow, which gives parents, community leaders, and educational innovators the chance to try new teaching methods and offer more options in education.

In exchange for their increased independence, charter schools agree to higher levels of accountability. They are overseen by specific local, state, or other groups that ensure they maintain high standards in both academic performance and financial management.

Magnet Schools

Magnet schools are the melting pots of academia, drawing diverse students with specific interests, especially in fields like science, technology, or the arts. Some require testing or proof of skill, while others are open to all students who are passionate about the school’s focus area.

Private Schools

A private school is an educational institution that operates independently of government funding, which allows it to develop its own unique curriculum. They are commonly managed by entities like for-profit businesses, private foundations, or religious organisations, each influencing the school’s ethos and educational approach. For example, UNIS Hanoi is a private school that shapes educational experience to mirror its own values and teaching philosophy, offering students a diverse and enriching learning environment.

As one of the leaders in private education, UNIS Hanoi also offers the IB programme, the programme is known around the world for its challenging and broad curriculum. Preparing students for life and work in an international setting in order to fit in well with the different types of education they might have experienced in earlier years of schooling.

Home Schools

Homeschooling is a way that allows for a highly customised educational experience. Parents can create the curriculum and teaching approach to meet their child’s specific needs. It demands a significant commitment but offers unparalleled flexibility and personalisation that’s hard to match.

Each type of school – public, private or homeschool – presents its own set of teaching styles, philosophies, and learning opportunities.

Step 4: Gather Information about Elementary Schools

When it comes to how to choose elementary school, gathering information is akin to shaping a clear picture of where your child will thrive. Let’s delve into how you can collect and analyse the necessary data to make an informed decision.

Curriculum

When delving into the curriculum of potential elementary schools, parents often find themselves with a multitude of questions:

• What core academic subjects are offered?
• Is there a special focus or theme?
• Are there opportunities for advanced learning?
• How does the school support different learning styles and needs?

Now, let’s talk about how our curriculum at UNIS Hanoi aligns with these considerations:

• Diverse Academic Subjects: UNIS Hanoi puts a special emphasis on languages, arts, and sciences, providing a well-rounded educational experience.
• Specialised Focus: We pride ourselves on a curriculum that balances academic rigour with creative expression, which aims to foster critical thinking, creativity, and a global perspective.
• Advanced Learning Opportunities: Providing advanced courses and enrichment activities tailored to challenge and engage students at all levels.
• Inclusive and Personalised Education: Recognising that each child is unique, our curriculum at UNIS Hanoi is structured to support diverse learning needs. We offer specialised support for children with different learning requirements, ensuring every child achieves their full potential.

Our goal at UNIS Hanoi is to deliver an educational experience that meets the present needs of our students and also prepares them for future challenges and opportunities.

Approach to Learning

As you identify the checklist for choosing an elementary school, one of the first considerations is the school’s approach to learning.

• What teaching methods does the school employ? Are they traditional, progressive, or a blend of both?
• How are different learning styles and paces accommodated in the classroom?
• Is experiential learning through projects and hands-on activities a part of the curriculum?
• What role does technology play in the classroom?
• Are there programmes designed for students with special educational needs or for those who are exceptionally gifted?

Tuition Fee

Transitioning to the topic of tuition fees, reflect on questions such as:

• Is the tuition fee within the family budget, and what additional costs should you anticipate?
• How do the school’s tuition fees compare to other schools you’re considering?
• Are there financial aid or scholarship options that could make the school more accessible for your child?

Academic Offerings

Academic offerings are central to your child’s education. Parents should ask:

• What subjects are included in the core curriculum, and are there any unique or specialised courses?
• Are advanced programmes like AP or IB available for students seeking a more challenging curriculum?
• How does the school support and nurture students who might be facing academic challenges?
• Are there enrichment opportunities or elective courses that allow students to explore beyond the core subjects?

Student-Teacher Relationship

The quality of student-teacher relationships can greatly impact learning; consider these questions:

• What is the typical class size, and how does it influence the level of individual attention students receive?
• How do teachers cater to their students’ diverse needs and learning styles?
• What are the school’s policies and practices regarding teacher availability and student support outside of regular classes?
• How do teachers and the school administration build a positive, respectful learning environment?

Safety

In the process of choosing the right elementary school for your child, safety should always be a priority. Evaluate the school’s safety measures by considering the following:

• What safety measures and protocols are in place at the school?
• How does the school address bullying, harassment, and other behavioural issues?
• Is there a comprehensive emergency plan, and how often is it practised with students and staff?
• What is the policy for visitors entering the school?

Step 5: Contact or Visit Schools

When figuring out how to choose elementary school for your child, you can decide to actually visit the schools on your list. Many schools, like UNIS Hanoi, let you book a tour to see the facilities, watch classes, and ask questions. You can arrange a visit to their campus easily.

To gain an authentic understanding of each school’s atmosphere, make the visit during a normal school day and avoid the less typical times like the beginning or end of a term. Additionally, try to attend events like open houses or parent-teacher meetings because such occasions give you a sense of the community, and attitudes of teachers, students, and other parents firsthand.

Give particular attention to observing the teachers – they are the ones who will be in direct daily contact with your child. Noticing how teachers interact with students and their overall educational approach in order to make the right choice for your child’s elementary education.

Step 6: Apply to the School

When looking for the right schools for your child, first pinpoint the ones you think are the best fit, and then get ready for the application and enrolment process. It’s wise to apply to several schools to boost your child’s chances, especially if their top-choice school doesn’t accept them.

To apply to these schools, your child may need to take tests or interviews, and you’ll have to compile documents like school records and recommendation letters. Therefore, prepare these application steps early to minimise stress and give you more time for thorough preparation.

Before applying, you need to have a deep understanding of what each school looks for in its applicants by paying on the dates and steps for each school’s application to stay updated.

As for applying to UNIS Hanoi, you can get a head start by visiting their Apply Now page, where you can find all the information needed regarding their application process.

The Path to the Perfect Elementary School

Choosing an elementary school is beyond considering academics, we need to opt for a place where our child grows, learns, and starts to explore the world.

Elementary school is like a second home for kids, where they make friends, discover new interests, and build the foundation for their future. That’s the essence of how to choose elementary school.

If you’re looking for a school that embodies these principles, UNIS Hanoi is an option. We are dedicated to fostering every child’s potential within a nurturing and engaging learning environment. You can apply now and provide your child with the opportunity to thrive and experience the joy of learning.

Inquiry-based learning (IBL) represents a dynamic approach to education, focusing on questioning, critical thinking, and problem-solving. It contrasts traditional learning methods, emphasising student-centered learning where learners are actively involved in their learning process through inquiry.

What is Inquiry-Based Learning?

Inquiry-based learning is an educational strategy where students learn by engaging in inquiry-oriented activities. It encourages learners to explore, ask questions, and use their natural curiosity to drive learning. This approach fosters deeper understanding, as students are not merely passive recipients of information but active participants in their learning journey.

Inquiry-Based Learning Examples

Some examples demonstrate how inquiry-based learning actively engages students in exploring and applying knowledge, moving beyond rote memorisation to foster a deeper, more meaningful understanding of various subjects.

1. Science – Ecosystem Observation: Instead of solely relying on textbook information, students in a science class could engage in studying local ecosystems directly. This could involve field trips to nearby forests or rivers where students observe and document wildlife, plant species, and environmental interactions. This hands-on approach aligns with a study by Ballantyne and Packer in “Nature-based Excursions: School Students’ Perceptions of Learning in Natural Environments” (International Research in Geographical and Environmental Education, 2002), which emphasises the value of direct environmental engagement in enhancing understanding of ecological concepts.
2. Mathematics – Real-World Problem Solving: In a mathematics class, students could be tasked with solving practical problems. For instance, calculating the required materials and costs for constructing a small bridge in a community park. This method of applying mathematical concepts to real-life scenarios is supported by Boaler (1993) in “The Role of Contexts in the Mathematics Classroom: Do They Make Mathematics More ‘Real’?” (For the Learning of Mathematics), which highlights the effectiveness of contextual learning in enhancing mathematical understanding and application.
3. History – Investigative Research Projects: Students could undertake a research project where they delve into a historical event or era. By analysing primary sources, such as historical documents, letters, and artifacts, they actively engage in the process of historical inquiry. This approach is echoed in the research of Levstik and Barton in “Doing History: Investigating With Children in Elementary and Middle Schools” (2001), where they advocate for an investigative approach in history education to deepen students’ understanding and interest in the subject.
4. Language Arts – Literature Circles: In language arts, students could participate in literature circles where they read, discuss, and analyse a book collectively. This collaborative inquiry-based approach enhances comprehension and encourages critical thinking and discussion skills. Murphy et al. in their study “Literature Circles in EFL Curriculum? A Quantitative and Qualitative Glimpse at Students’ Attitudes and Prospects for Language Acquisition” (Reading in a Foreign Language, 2009) underline the benefits of such interactive and inquiry-focused methods in language learning.

4 Levels of Inquiry-Based Learning

Transitioning into the various levels of inquiry-based learning, it’s important to understand that each level offers a different degree of autonomy and complexity in the learning process.

Here’s a closer look at each level:

1. Confirmation Inquiry: Students follow specific instructions to reach a known outcome, reinforcing previously learned concepts. This level is foundational, focusing on understanding basic methods or principles, like in introductory science experiments.
2. Structured Inquiry: Students are given a question and a procedure but analyse results and form explanations independently. This level promotes critical thinking within a structured framework, such as predicting outcomes in chemistry experiments.
3. Guided Inquiry: Students receive a question but devise their own methods for investigation. This level enhances creativity and problem-solving skills, like in environmental research projects where students choose their data collection methods.
4. Open Inquiry: The highest independence level, where students formulate their own questions, methods, and conclusions, is suitable for advanced learners engaging in self-directed projects, like in student-led scientific research.

Benefits Of Inquiry-Based Learning

Inquiry-Based Learning (IBL) offers a range of benefits as an interactive and impactful educational method, promoting more proactive involvement in learning. Notable advantages include:

• Enhanced Critical Thinking: IBL encourages students to actively question, analyse, and evaluate information. This active engagement leads to the development of superior critical thinking skills, enabling learners to assess situations and information more effectively.
• Improved Problem-Solving Skills: By actively engaging in problem identification and solution development, students in IBL settings enhance their problem-solving abilities. They learn to approach challenges methodically, applying learned concepts to find practical solutions.
• Increased Motivation and Engagement: IBL’s interactive nature boosts student motivation and interest in the subject matter. When learners are directly involved in the learning process, they are more likely to be engaged and enthusiastic about their studies.
• Deeper Understanding of Subject Matter: IBL facilitates a comprehensive grasp of topics. Students explore subjects in-depth, leading to a more profound and lasting understanding of the material.
• Effective Application in Real-World Contexts: IBL equips students with the ability to apply their knowledge practically. This hands-on approach ensures that learners can transfer classroom concepts to real-life scenarios with ease.

Inquiry-based Learning Process

The IBL process can be outlined in 4 key steps:

1. Posing Real Questions: Students identify and articulate real-life problems or questions.
   • Example: In a science class, students might ask, “How does the pH level of soil affect plant growth?” This question encourages exploration and experimentation.
2. Finding Relevant Resources: Learners gather information from various sources to investigate the posed questions.
   • Example: For the soil pH question, students could research academic articles, consult experts in botany, or gather data from existing case studies.
3. Interpreting Information: Analysis and synthesis of information occur, leading to new understandings.
   • Example: After collecting data, students might analyse their findings to understand the relationship between soil acidity and plant health, using statistical tools or comparative studies.
4. Reporting Findings: Students present their findings and conclusions, often leading to further questions and inquiry.
   • Example: Students could create a presentation or a report detailing their findings on soil pH and plant growth, discussing their methodology, results, and potential implications for farming practices.

Each of these steps is designed to be accessible and engaging, encouraging a deeper, professional, and academically-oriented approach to learning.

Learn Better with UNIS Hanoi

Inquiry-based learning is a transformative approach that fosters a deeper, more engaging, and more practical learning experience.

By adopting IBL, educators can equip students with the skills and mindset necessary for success in an increasingly complex and technology-driven world. As research and practice continue to evolve, the role of IBL in shaping future generations of thinkers and innovators becomes ever more crucial.

At UNIS Hanoi, we can provide your child with an enriching environment to learn and grow. Discover more here about our curriculum today!

FAQs about Inquiry-based Learning

Let’s delve into some common questions about Inquiry-Based Learning (IBL) and its application, particularly in STEM education:

Parallel play in child development is a critical stage that often goes unnoticed but plays a significant role in a child’s social development and emotional growth. This article delves into the nuances of parallel play, underscoring its importance and providing practical advice for parents and teachers to foster this stage of development effectively.

What is Parallel Play in Child Development?

Parallel play, a term first coined by Mildred Parten in the 1930s, refers to the developmental stage where children play adjacent to each other but do not directly interact. It typically occurs in toddlers aged 2-3 years and is a natural part of the socialization process, serving as a bridge to more interactive forms of play.

The Importance of Parallel Play in Child Development

Parallel play, an integral part of early childhood development, serves as a foundation for various developmental milestones. Here, we delve deeper into its benefits and provide practical examples for a clearer understanding.

• Facilitates Independent Play: Parallel play fosters an environment where children can engage in activities independently, a crucial step towards developing self-reliance. For instance, a child playing with building blocks on their own, while another child plays nearby with a different set, demonstrates this independent yet coexisting play style. This setup encourages the child to make decisions independently, enhancing their ability to play and think without constant guidance.
• Promotes Social Skills: This stage of play, although not directly interactive, introduces children to the fundamental concept of sharing a play space with others. For example, two children may be drawing separately at the same table, occasionally looking at each other’s work. This scenario subtly teaches them to coexist peacefully with peers, laying the groundwork for more complex social interactions in the future.
• Enhances Cognitive Development: Parallel play is an excellent opportunity for children to learn by observing their peers. For instance, a child might watch how another child solves a puzzle and then apply similar techniques to their puzzle-solving. This observational learning not only boosts problem-solving skills but also sparks imagination, as children are often inspired by their peers’ actions and ideas.
• Emotional Growth: Engaging in parallel play helps children understand and respect personal and others’ boundaries. A practical example is when children play in the same sandbox but with their toys, understanding implicitly that they should not disturb the other’s play area. This experience teaches them about personal space and respecting others, essential elements for emotional maturity and future social interactions.

Examples of Parallel Play in Child Development

5 examples of key behaviors, benefits, and insights from child development research related to parallel play include:

1. Two Children Building Separate Towers with Blocks: This classic example of parallel play demonstrates how children can be engaged in similar activities without direct interaction. They may occasionally glance at each other’s towers, subtly learning from each other’s techniques. This activity fosters creativity and develops fine motor skills. A study by Bergen, D. & Mauer, D. (2000) in the “Early Childhood Research & Practice” journal highlights how such activities enhance spatial awareness and problem-solving skills.
2. Toddlers Drawing Individually on Their Sheets of Paper: In this scenario, children express their creativity independently while sitting together. This parallel activity fosters a sense of individuality and artistic expression. According to a report by the National Association for the Education of Young Children, such activities encourage self-expression and can enhance emotional regulation in children.
3. Playing in the Sandbox Separately: Children playing in the same sandbox with different toys or goals exemplify parallel play. They may observe each other’s methods of building or digging, indirectly learning new ways of engaging with the sand. The Journal of Play Therapy (2015) suggests that such play scenarios promote sensory development and environmental awareness.
4. Riding Tricycles on the Same Path: Children riding their bikes or tricycles near each other, each engrossed in their journey, is another example. They are aware of each other’s presence and may occasionally mimic each other’s actions. This type of parallel play is beneficial for physical development and coordination, as noted in a study by the American Academy of Pediatrics.
5. Playing with Dolls or Action Figures Side by Side: Children engaging in imaginative play with dolls or action figures, each creating their narratives, demonstrate parallel play. This encourages creative storytelling and emotional exploration, as discussed in the “Journal of Child Development” (2018).

How to Help Children with Parallel Play

Establishing a supportive atmosphere is fundamental to cultivating parallel play, be it within a home or school context.

How Parents Help Their Child in Parallel Play at Home

Parallel play represents an integral aspect of child development, characterized by independent play occurring simultaneously with others nearby. Parents can enhance this experience by creating an appropriate environment and introducing suitable activities.

• Create a Safe Play Space: Set up a designated area at home for independent yet adjacent play. This space should be hazard-free and feature elements like colourful mats to stimulate creativity and exploration. Regularly changing toys in this area keeps the environment engaging and safe.
• Provide Similar Toys: Offer age-appropriate, similar toys to encourage observation and mimicry, while reducing competition. Introducing open-ended toys allows for diverse play and fosters imagination, aiding in social and cognitive development in a non-threatening setting.

How Teachers Help Children in Parallel Play at School

Parallel play significantly contributes to learning and social development within school environments. Teachers can nurture this progress by strategically arranging the learning environment and providing guidance.

• Structured Playtime: Set up dedicated play stations that facilitate parallel play. These stations should be designed to naturally encourage children to engage in independent activities while in proximity to each other.
• Observation and Guidance: Teachers should monitor playtime, offering subtle guidance to maintain a positive and inclusive environment. This approach helps nurture social skills and ensures a constructive play experience for all children.

FAQs about Parallel Play in Child Development

Here are some common questions about parallel play:

Which child is most likely to engage in parallel play?

Typically, toddlers between 2 and 3 years old will most likely engage in parallel play.

This developmental phase aligns with their growing sense of independence and curiosity about the world around them.

At this age, children are beginning to explore their environment more fully but are not yet fully ready for cooperative play, making parallel play a natural and comfortable choice for them.

UNIS Hanoi offers an exceptional programme for Lower Elementary children (ages 3-6), which is specifically designed to nurture these developmental stages through carefully structured activities and learning environments.

What to do if your child struggles to play with other children?

If your child struggles to play with other children, introducing parallel play can be a gentle and effective way to ease into social interactions.

This type of play allows children to become comfortable with the presence of peers without the pressure of direct interaction. Over time, parallel play can help children build confidence and social skills, gradually leading to more interactive forms of play as the child feels ready.

How does parallel play help expressive language?

Parallel play helps in the development of expressive language by providing an opportunity for children to vocalize thoughts and narrate activities, even in a non-interactive setting.

This practice helps them develop language skills in a low-pressure environment, where they can experiment with words and phrases they’ve heard. Additionally, hearing peers talk during play can introduce new vocabulary and sentence structures, further enhancing their language development.

Nurture Your Child with UNIS Hanoi

Understanding and fostering parallel play in child development is essential for nurturing a child’s social, emotional, and cognitive growth.

By creating supportive environments at home and school, we can guide children through this developmental stage effectively. For more insights and resources on child development, visit UNIS Hanoi and learn how our International Elementary School programme (ages 3-11) can give your child a great start.

Adolescence, the most fascinating aspect of growing up, cannot be without the development of values and morals during these teenage years. Picture this as a friendly and enlightening journey into understanding how adolescents, maybe like your old self or someone you know, start shaping their internal moral senses. Because such senses form the foundation for the kind of person they’ll become.

In this discussion, we’ll break down what moral and values development in adolescence really mean in a way that’s easy to grasp. We’ll also explore how these important principles start to evolve and take root during the teenage years, influenced by everything from family and friends to media and personal experiences. It’s like a backstage pass to the mind of a teenager, revealing how they figure out what matters to them and what they believe to be right or wrong.

Let’s dive in and make sense of this exciting, sometimes confusing, but always an indispensable part of growing up.

What is Moral Development in Adolescence?

Moral development in adolescence is how teens grow, understand what’s right and wrong, and apply these beliefs in their daily lives. During these years, their brains start to think in more advanced ways, which helps them understand the deeper aspects of life and morality. Moral development during adolescence helps teens connect with society and supports their overall health. Being involved in faith-based activities and having a sense of spirituality can lead to better social connections, higher self-esteem, and lower rates of substance use.

At the heart of moral and values development in adolescence lies a few things: understanding oneself and others, managing one’s behaviour and emotions, developing a sense of identity, including a moral identity, and learning to care about others. It’s also about building social intelligence – understanding and identifying relationships.

Parents can shape their teens’ moral compass through clear guidelines, empowerment, unconditional love, and by being good role models themselves. By providing a nurturing environment and helping teens understand the consequences of their actions, parents guide them toward becoming responsible, ethical adults.

Factors that Affect Moral and Values Development in Adolescence

Various factors influence adolescents’ moral and values development, each forming their understanding of the outside world. These factors interplay to form a complex web that guides teens through their ethical and moral maturation.

These factors contribute to the development of moral and values in adolescence, helping shape the ethical framework that guides teens into adulthood.

Values of Moral Development in Adolescence

Values in moral development during adolescence are beliefs and attitudes shaping teens’ moral judgments and behaviours. These values, reflecting what is important to adolescents, can come from personal experiences, family, culture, and more.

Eight moral characteristics are commonly valued by adolescents, regardless of their cultural background.

• Diligence: Working hard consistently and tackling tasks positively.
• Frugality: Living a simple life and being mindful about spending and saving.
• Honesty: Staying true to one’s duties, being punctual, and completing tasks well.
• Discipline: Respecting and following rules set by schools, institutions, and society.
• Politeness: Behaving kindly and respectfully in different situations.
• Cleanliness: Maintaining both physical and mental tidiness.
• Unity: Being open to listening to others and valuing teamwork.
• Generosity: Showing consideration and care for others beyond oneself.

Such values represent moral virtues and standards adolescents use in self and social evaluations.

6 Stages and 3 Levels of Moral Development in Adolescence

Regarding moral development in adolescence, the one proposed by Lawrence Kohlberg is widely acknowledged; rather than solely focusing on actions, this theory emphasises the reasoning behind moral choices.

Kohlberg also proposed that moral development consists of six stages, which are grouped into three levels.

Level 1: Premoral or Preconventional

The first level, known as the Premoral or Preconventional stage, is where morality is externally controlled. Adolescents at this stage make decisions based on self-interest, focusing on avoiding punishment or seeking personal gain.

• Stage 1 (Self-Protection): In this stage, the initial concern is avoiding punishment. Younger adolescents may think, “If I do this, will I get into trouble?” Their moral decisions are based on avoiding negative consequences rather than any sense of right or wrong.
• Stage 2 (Personal Gain): Moving beyond just avoiding punishment, adolescents start to recognise the value of individual needs and desires. Their thinking changes to, “What’s in it for me?” Decisions are made based on the benefits they might receive, not yet considering broader societal norms or ethics.

Level 2: Conventional Morality

The second level, Conventional Morality, is characterised by following societal rules and norms. Adolescents begin to consider the perspectives of others and societal laws.

• Stage 3 (Good Boy/Good Girl): In this stage, adolescents seek approval from others. Their actions are guided by what will make them look good in the eyes of peers or adults. They start to value being seen as “good” and base their actions on what will please or help others in their social circle.
• Stage 4
  • 4.1. Law and Order: Adolescents in this stage respect authority and the rules of society. Their moral reasoning is based on maintaining social order and respecting laws and regulations. They consider the legality and societal rules, asking, “Is this against the rules?”
  • 4.2. The Cynic: A subset of adolescents in this stage start to question societal norms and values. They may show scepticism towards established rules, wondering about their rationale and whether they truly make sense.

Level 3: Postconventional or Principled Morality

The final level, Postconventional or Principled Morality, involves a more mature understanding of morality based on principles and ethics. Most adolescents do not reach this stage.

• Stage 5 (Social Contract and Individual Rights): Adolescents start to understand the balance between societal laws and individual rights. They make decisions based on fairness, justice, and mutual respect. This time, their reasoning is more about, “Is this fair for everyone involved?” rather than just following rules.
• Stage 6 (Universal Principles): Here comes the most advanced stage, where moral reasoning is based on universal ethical principles and the rights of all individuals. Adolescents at this stage ask themselves, “Is this the right thing to do for all people?” Their decisions are guided by an internal moral compass considering everyone’s welfare and rights.

FAQs about Moral and Values Development in Adolescence

It’s time to shed light on some of the most common questions that parents, educators, and adolescents may have about moral and values development in adolescence.

1. How do adolescents develop a sense of right and wrong?

Adolescents forge their understanding of right and wrong by engaging in moral reasoning, grappling with emotions like guilt or empathy, and absorbing the influences around them. This includes feedback from the social circles they value—family, friends, educators—and the various forms of media they consume, which all shape their moral framework.

2. What role do parents and educators play in an adolescent’s moral development?

Parents and educators significantly influence an adolescent’s moral development by offering guidance and setting a framework within which young people can explore moral issues. They create environments that balance care with expectation, stimulate moral thought through dialogue, introduce real-world ethical challenges, and foster activities that build moral character.

By exemplifying ethical behaviour themselves, they set standards for their children to observe and adopt in their personal growth.

3. How do social media and the internet influence adolescent values?

Social media and the internet deeply affect adolescent values by offering myriad perspectives and experiences that can either enhance their understanding of the world or challenge their moral compass.

Social media is a double-edged sword, enabling self-expression and connection while exposing young users to negative content and behaviours that can influence their own.

4. How do cultural differences affect moral development in adolescence?

Cultural differences significantly shape an adolescent’s moral development by instilling diverse values and beliefs.

These differences can prioritise various moral aspects like justice or harmony, highlight distinct virtues such as honesty or generosity, and draw on unique sources and authorities for moral direction, whether it’s societal norms, family traditions, or religious teachings. Each culture presents its own moral landscape for adolescents to navigate.

Shaping Future Leaders at UNIS Hanoi

The journey in shaping the ethical framework of our future leaders, including how they develop their sense of right and wrong, along with their personal values, goes beyond mere textbook learning. It blends their mental growth, emotional experiences, social interactions, and more. However, the stages outlined, drawing from Kohlberg’s theory, provide a roadmap for understanding adolescents’ complex processes as they evolve from self-centred to ethically principled individuals.

At UNIS Hanoi, understanding this complex development is integrated into our educational approach, especially through our IB Programmes, where we embed core values in educational ethos. Apply now to embark on this empowering educational journey, where moral and values development in adolescence is not just taught but lived and experienced.

Independent learning empowers students to take control of their education. Knowing how to encourage independent learning and explore topics of interest is a skill that will serve your students a whole lifetime.

To develop this skill, students need to be self-motivated and self-aware, identify their own learning needs, set objectives, find resources, and critically assess their progress.

What is Independent Learning?

Independent learning is the process by which learners are responsible for acquiring knowledge, with minimal reliance on instructors or institutions. Independent learners actively investigate, research, and explore new topics, using their initiative rather than solely on teacher-provided materials.

Indeed, they set personal educational goals, ask meaningful questions, and track their own progress to ensure continuous development. Here are some examples of independent learning skills:

• Proactive problem-solving: Students seek answers from multiple sources when stuck, rather than relying solely on the teacher or abandoning the task.
• Making informed learning choices: Selecting effective study and revision methods, with guidance, as students often default to easier but less effective strategies.
• Applying metacognitive strategies: Understanding and practicing how to learn, which typically requires explicit teaching and reinforcement.
• Emotional regulation: Developing the ability to self-motivate, manage emotions, persevere through setbacks, and value delayed gratification.

Benefits of Independent Learning

Independent learning can provide you with countless personal benefits. From developing a strong sense of self-discipline to boosting your confidence, the advantages of self-directed learning are truly invaluable, such as:

• Enhancing cognitive abilities: Independent learning can enhance critical thinking, problem-solving, creativity, and metacognition.
• Boosting confidence and self-esteem: Independent learning can foster a sense of autonomy, competence, and achievement, as well as a growth mindset (believing that one can improve through effort and feedback).
• Developing lifelong learning skills: Preparing for the constantly changing knowledge and skills of the 21st century requires independent learning.
• Increasing motivation and engagement: Independent learning enhances learning’s value and relevance, aligning with personal interests, values, and aspirations.

How to Promote Independent Learning for Students

Independent learning does not imply that the learner is left alone or unsupported. On the contrary, it demands a supportive environment where the learner can avail of appropriate resources, guidance, and feedback.

Here are some ways to establish such an environment and promote independent learning:

• Show learners the purpose and outcome of independent learning.
• Step back as a parent or teacher – try not to help them immediately.
• Play dumb when they ask questions – encourage them to think independently.
• Give suggestions to make learners improve.
• Promote them to challenge themselves personally.
• Ask them to share their ideas with peers.
• Promote self-evaluation to boost independent learning.

1. Show learners the desired outcome

Help the learner to understand the purpose and the value of the learning task and to visualize the desired outcome.

At the start of a lesson, instead of dictating the learning process to students, a better approach would be to encourage them to suggest activities to help them achieve the learning objectives. To meet the learning objective, students should work in groups of two or three to come up with a potential route. They should present their ideas to the rest of the class, and then the class should vote on two or three of the most practical suggestions. The suggestion that receives the most votes will be used as the basis for the lesson.

This task fosters self-reliance by requiring pupils to take charge of their learning and determine ways to achieve a specific learning objective. To simplify the strategy, you can offer students a set of activities. This helps generate ideas and prevents unpreparedness.

2. Try not to help them immediately

To foster independence among your students, try not to help them until they have made three attempts at solving their problem. If they’re still stuck, ask them to explain their attempts so that you can guide them and provide tips for future reference.

Consider creating a problem-solving checklist and only assist students if they have already attempted to follow the steps on the list. When they request your help, ask them to explain how they have tackled each item on the checklist.

An example of a problem-solving checklist is as follows:

• Did I thoroughly examine the question and highlight the important words?
• Have I looked over my past work to find the solution?
• Did I do more research or read any related ebook?
• Have I utilized all the reference resources available to me?

All too often, students may ask for answers without trying to solve problems on their own. Instead of providing the answer or doing the work for them, ask for their solution. Encourage active learning by asking students to come up with their own solutions.

When they ask for help, respond with “What do you think the answer is?” This builds their confidence and reduces reliance on teachers for answers.

By responding in this way, we encourage the students to think critically, helping them develop better strategies for dealing with future challenges.

3. Keep it casual when they ask questions

Encouraging students to think for themselves by playing dumb and asking questions can be practical. Such as:

• What is the question about?
• What’s the answer to this question?
• If the answer is about probability. So, what is probability?

The objective is to inspire students to actively participate in the subject material, empowering them to utilize their existing knowledge and identify solutions on their own. This approach is particularly effective when the instructor knows that the student has sufficient comprehension to resolve independently but may require guidance from the teacher through role-playing to steer them in the right direction.

4. Give suggestions to make learners improve

To help students do better and make their work even better, you can suggest a few things:

1. Ask students to pretend they’re inspectors looking for the best work and check their own work. This way, they can find things that need improvement.
2. Give students a checklist of things to improve. They can keep this checklist and use it whenever they say they’re done with their work.
3. Don’t accept work as finished until they’ve improved it at least three times. Students should show what they changed and explain why in the margins.

Using these ideas, students can keep making their work better and better.

5. Promote them to challenge themselves personally

If a student completes their assigned task, you can encourage them to challenge themselves by creating an extra task. Give them a list of important words and ask them to use one to create their task. This will help them think more critically and aim for higher goals.

If a student needs help understanding a concept, ask another student who finished their work to explain it. Let the students choose how to explain, but make sure they keep the main idea the same.

6. Ask them to share their ideas with peers

When a student believes they’ve completed a task, it’s beneficial to recommend sharing their work with a couple of classmates. This allows them to seek feedback and suggestions for further development and improvement.

In return, they can provide their own advice. As students gather ideas, they can apply them and make this practice a regular part of their learning journey. Over time, it will become second nature to them.

7. Promote self-evaluation

Encouraging self-evaluation is a powerful way to boost students’ independence once they finish a task. Ask students to write a reflection where they identify what they did well and where they can improve. This approach helps develop a positive yet self-critical mindset. As they assess and reflect on their work, students grasp their responsibility for its quality.

Here are three self-evaluation methods:

• Students can check their work against predetermined success criteria.
• They can pinpoint three successes and one area for improvement, then take steps to enhance it.
• Students should assess whether they’ve achieved their recent goals and think of ways to improve if they haven’t.

How to Apply Age-Appropriate Independent Learning Techniques

Independent learning is not a one-size-fits-all approach. Depending on age, stage, and context, learners may have different needs, preferences, and abilities.

Here are some suggestions on how to adapt and differentiate independent learning techniques according to the learner’s age group:

Early Years to Grade 1 (Ages 3-6)

At this stage, the learner develops basic cognitive, social, and emotional skills and explores their environment through play and curiosity.

Understanding Emotional Development in Early Childhood

To encourage independent learning, you can:

• Provide a rich and stimulating learning environment with various materials, resources, and activities that cater to the learner’s interests and needs.
• Allow the learner to have some choice and control over their learning and to experiment and discover things for themselves.
• Use praise, encouragement, and rewards to reinforce the learner’s efforts, achievements, and positive behaviours.
• Use stories, songs, games, or puppets to engage the learner’s attention, imagination, and emotions.
• Use simple and clear language, gestures, and visuals to communicate with the learner and to check their understanding and feedback.
• Use routines, cues, and reminders to help the learner to organize and regulate their learning.

Grade 2 to Grade 5 (Ages 7-10)

At this stage, the learner expands their knowledge, skills, and attitudes and becomes more aware of themselves and others.

To encourage independent learning, you can:

• Provide a structured and supportive learning environment with clear expectations, rules, and consequences that promote the learner’s autonomy and responsibility.
• Allow the learner to have some input and influence over their learning and to make some decisions and choices that suit their preferences and goals.
• Use feedback, reflection, and self-evaluation to help the learner to monitor and improve their learning and to recognize their strengths and areas for development.
• Use examples, models, or demonstrations to show the learner what a good performance looks like and to guide them to achieve it.
• Use questions, prompts, or hints to stimulate the learner’s thinking, reasoning, and problem-solving skills.
• Use cooperative learning, peer tutoring, or group projects to facilitate learner interaction, collaboration, and communication with peers.

Grade 6 to Grade 10 (Ages 11-16)

At this stage, the learner develops higher-order cognitive, affective, and metacognitive skills and explores their identity and values.

To encourage independent learning, you can:

• Provide a challenging and relevant learning environment with authentic and meaningful tasks that connect to the learner’s interests, experiences, and aspirations.
• Allow the learner more freedom and flexibility over their learning and pursue inquiries and projects that reflect their passions and purposes.
• Use self-assessment, peer assessment, or portfolios to help learners document and showcase their learning and celebrate their progress and achievements.
• Use rubrics, criteria, or standards to help the learner set goals, plan strategies, and evaluate outcomes.
• Use open-ended questions, problems, or scenarios to challenge the learner’s creativity, critical thinking, and decision-making skills.
• Use online, blended, or flipped learning to enable the learner to access and use various resources, tools, and platforms to support their learning.

Grade 11 to Grade 12 (Ages 16-18)

At this stage, the learner consolidates their academic, vocational, and personal skills and prepares to transition to higher education, work, or life. To encourage independent learning, you can:

• Provide a diverse and inclusive learning environment, with opportunities for the learner to explore and appreciate different perspectives, cultures, and contexts.
• Allow the learner to have full ownership and accountability over their learning and to design and implement their learning plans and projects that align with their vision and mission.
• Use self-regulation, self-monitoring, or self-management to help the learner control and optimize their learning and cope with stress, emotions, and distractions.
• Use SMART goals, action plans, or learning contracts to help the learner plan and manage their learning and to review and adjust their learning as needed.
• Use inquiry-based, project-based, or research-based learning to empower the learner to conduct their investigations and inquiries and produce their products and solutions.
• Use mentoring, coaching, or counseling to support the learner’s personal and professional development and to guide them to achieve their potential and aspirations.

Summing Up

Independent learning is a good habit that helps learners in many ways, and understanding how to encourage independent learning in children becomes extremely important for their future. By promoting independent learning, learners can gain confidence, skills, and motivation, making learning a lifelong enjoyable journey.

Discover UNIS Hanoi and learn how we can help your child establish a strong foundation for their educational journey.

Language development is a pivotal aspect of an adolescent’s growth, shaping their ability to communicate, express emotions, and engage with the world. During adolescence, individuals undergo significant changes in their linguistic abilities, encompassing pragmatic, syntactic, and semantic aspects.

This article delves into the nuances of the language development in adolescence, offering insights and practical activities for parents and educators to support adolescents in this crucial phase of their development.

Pragmatic Language Development in Adolescence

Pragmatic language, defined as the use of language in social contexts, involves understanding both what to say and how to say it in different situations. Adolescents learn to interpret nuances, such as sarcasm and idioms, and adjust their language according to the listener and setting.

Activities to Improve Pragmatic Language Skills at Home

1. Role-playing Various Social Scenarios:
   • Purpose: This activity helps in understanding and practicing the nuances of social interactions. Role-playing allows individuals to experience different perspectives and responses in a controlled, safe environment.
   • Benefits: It enhances the ability to interpret and use non-verbal cues like facial expressions and body language, which are vital components of pragmatic language skills.
   • Supporting Research: A study by Abdoola, Flack, and Karrim (2017) in speech-language pathology found that role-playing activities significantly improved children’s ability to empathize and respond appropriately in social interactions.
2. Discussing Characters’ Intentions and Language Use in Movies and Books:
   • Purpose: This encourages critical thinking about how language is used to convey different intentions and emotions.
   • Benefits: It helps understand the subtleties of language, such as sarcasm, humor, and implied meanings, which are often challenging in pragmatic language development.
   • Supporting Research: A study highlighted by Discover Magazine in 2006 indicates that discussions about fictional characters can enhance theory of mind, the ability to attribute mental states to oneself and others, which is crucial for pragmatic language.

Activities to Improve Pragmatic Language Skills at School

1. Group Discussions and Debates on Current Events:
   • Purpose: This activity promotes the understanding of diverse perspectives and the development of argumentation skills.
   • Benefits: It fosters the ability to use language for persuasion, negotiation, and expressing opinions, all of which are key aspects of pragmatic language.
   • Supporting Research: A quasi-experimental field study published in Science of Learning showed that students who regularly engaged in debates exhibited improved verbal reasoning and a greater understanding of varying viewpoints.
2. Projects Involving Collaborative Storytelling or Playwriting:
   • Purpose: These projects require working together to create narratives, which involves negotiating ideas, characters, and plots.
   • Benefits: Such collaboration enhances skills like turn-taking, respecting different opinions, and adapting language for specific audiences or contexts.
   • Supporting Research: A comprehensive study published in Smart Learning Environments demonstrates collaborative storytelling projects have been linked to improved social communication skills and greater creativity in language use.

Syntactic Language Development in Adolescence

Syntactic language development involves the arrangement of words and phrases to create well-formed sentences. During adolescence, there’s a refinement in understanding and using complex sentence structures.

Activities to Improve Syntactic Language Skills at Home

1. Reading and Discussing Various Texts (Novels, Newspapers, etc.):
   • Purpose: To enhance understanding and use of complex sentence structures in everyday communication.
   • Benefits: Reading and discussing various texts, including novels and newspapers, offers several benefits for improving syntactic language skills at home. This activity increases exposure to diverse syntactic structures, enriches vocabulary, and enhances comprehension of different writing styles.
   • Supporting Research: Exposure to a wide range of texts has been shown to enhance comprehension and improve syntactic understanding, as demonstrated in studies cited in the Educational Research Journal.
2. Writing Journals or Stories:
   • Purpose: To facilitate the practical application of syntactic rules and stimulate creativity in language use.
   • Benefits: Creative writing fosters inventiveness, aiding in the internalization of complex syntactic structures.
   • Supporting Research: Studies, such as those featured in the Journal of Creative Education, have demonstrated that engaging in creative writing activities enhances syntactic development and overall language skills.

Improving Syntactic Language Skills at School

1. Analyzing Sentence Structures in Literature:
   • Purpose: To facilitate an understanding of how syntax contributes to the meaning in literature, deepening comprehension of complex sentence structures.
   • Benefits: This analytical approach enhances students’ ability to grasp complex sentence structures and comprehend their effects on literary meaning.
   • Supporting Research: Studies in the Literary Studies Journal have shown that syntactic analysis in educational settings leads to improved reading comprehension and enhanced writing skills.
2. Creative Writing Assignments with Specific Syntactic Challenges:

Semantic Language Development in Adolescence

Semantic development focuses on understanding and using words and their meanings. Adolescents expand their vocabulary and use language more precisely during this stage.

Activities to Improve Semantic Language Skills at Home

1. Word games like Scrabble or word puzzles:
   • Purpose: To enrich vocabulary and enhance language comprehension through engaging activities.
   • Benefits: Promote active word exploration, strategic thinking, and vocabulary expansion.
   • Supporting Research: Studies in the Journal of Educational Psychology have demonstrated that word games like Scrabble positively impact vocabulary development and strategic thinking skills in individuals of all ages, making them an effective tool for semantic language skill improvement.
2. Discussing the meanings of new words encountered in daily life:
   • Purpose: To foster active engagement with language and deepen understanding of word meanings in real-life contexts.
   • Benefits: Encourages curiosity and a deeper grasp of language by actively exploring and reinforcing word meanings.
   • Supporting Research: Research published in Language Learning highlights the effectiveness of discussing new words encountered in daily life for vocabulary retention and comprehension. This practice enhances semantic language skills and contributes to language development in individuals of all ages.

Activities to Improve Semantic Language Skills at School

1. Vocabulary building exercises:
   • Purpose: To systematically expand students’ vocabulary and strengthen their language proficiency.
   • Benefits: Vocabulary building exercises empower students with a broader lexical repertoire, enhancing their reading, writing, and communication skills.
   • Supporting Research: Studies in the Journal of Reading Research demonstrate that well-structured vocabulary building exercises lead to significant improvements in students’ language skills, benefiting their overall academic performance.
2. Exploring synonyms and antonyms in language lessons:
   • Purpose: To deepen students’ understanding of word meanings and language nuances.
   • Benefits: Exploring synonyms and antonyms in language lessons enriches students’ lexical knowledge, improves their comprehension of language nuances, and enhances their language proficiency.
   • Supporting Research: The Reading Teacher journal emphasizes that focusing on synonyms and antonyms in language lessons contributes to a more profound understanding of language and enriches students’ language skills.

Challenges of Language Development in Adolescence

Language development in adolescence can be a complex journey, and adolescents may encounter various challenges. These challenges may include language disorders, which can impede their ability to communicate effectively.

Supporting Adolescents in Language Development

Parents and educators play a vital role in supporting language development. This can be achieved through:

1. Encouraging Open Communication and Active Listening: Parents and educators should create an atmosphere where adolescents feel comfortable expressing themselves. Active listening fosters trust and allows adolescents to practice language skills confidently. It also provides opportunities for meaningful conversations and language modeling.
2. Providing Diverse Linguistic Experiences: Exposure to various languages and contexts enriches vocabulary and comprehension. Encouraging reading, cultural experiences, and exposure to different communication styles broadens language horizons.
3. Fostering an Environment for Learning from Mistakes: Adolescents should view language errors as natural parts of the learning process. Encouraging them to ask questions, correct mistakes, and learn from them promotes linguistic growth and self-assurance in communication.

Thrive with UNIS Hanoi

Language development in adolescence is a complex, multifaceted process. Through understanding and supporting the pragmatic, syntactic, and semantic aspects of language, parents and educators can significantly aid adolescents in effectively navigating and expressing themselves.

UNIS Hanoi’s supportive and enriching language environment can help adolescents in their academic pursuits and personal growth. Visit UNIS Hanoi and learn more about our Secondary Programme (ages 12-18) to prepare your child for a bright future.

Adolescence is a rollercoaster of thrilling and challenging changes for ages 11 to 16. It’s a time when teenagers start looking at the world through a new lens – often, a lens that is focused sharply on themselves.

The term for this stage is called ‘egocentrism in adolescence‘, a common and normal part of growing up, but it can be perplexing and even frustrating for parents and educators.

Let’s explore what this means and how we can unfold these walls of our children together.

What is Egocentrism in Adolescence?

Egocentrism in adolescence is a psychological phase where teenagers tend to become more self-focused, typically occurring between the ages of 11 and 16. They believe their thoughts, feelings, and experiences are unique and not easily understood by others. It’s as if they’re standing in front of a mirror that only reflects their own perspectives.

This phenomenon, first described by psychologist David Elkind in the 1960s, also includes the belief that everyone else is as preoccupied with them as they are with themselves. It’s like they imagine an imaginary audience, constantly observing and judging their actions.

It reflects the emergence of abstract thinking and self-awareness, identifying formation and moral reasoning. It also makes teenagers separate themselves from their parents and establish their own values and goals.

Common Causes of Egocentrism in Adolescence

Several intertwined elements shape adolescent egocentrism, and it mainly happens due to a mix of changes happening in their bodies and brains.

• Brain Development: The teenage brain is in the midst of significant changes, especially in the prefrontal cortex – the part that helps with planning, decision-making, and understanding other people’s points of view – which is still under construction. It won’t be fully developed until their early twenties. This is why teens might struggle with managing their emotions or realizing the full impact of their actions.
• Hormonal Changes: Puberty brings a flood of hormones like testosterone and estrogen, which can really stir things up. These hormones can change how teens feel, behave, and view themselves. They can make emotions feel more intense, increase the need to be accepted, and form close bonds with others.
• Social Environment: Adolescents are exposed to various influences such as peers, media, and culture. These factors can impact their self-esteem, values, and expectations. Additionally, challenges like peer pressure, academic stress, bullying, and family conflicts can increase anxiety and insecurity among teenagers.

Understanding these underlying causes can help parents and educators support adolescents as they journey through this self-focused development phase.

How Egocentrism in Adolescence Impacts Teenage Behaviour

To grasp the effects of egocentrism on teenage behaviour in adolescence, we must delve into the “how” of this unique developmental phase. Adolescent egocentrism, characterised by heightened self-focus, has both positive and negative repercussions on teenage behaviour.

Positive Impacts

• Stimulated Creativity and Curiosity: Adolescents often display heightened creativity and curiosity during this phase. Their egocentrism encourages them to explore new ideas, interests, and possibilities. As a result, they may develop a sense of wonder and appreciation for the world and themselves.
• Nurtured Self-Expression and Identity: Egocentrism can also positively enhance self-expression and identity development. Teens experiment with various roles, styles, and opinions, helping them discover their strengths, passions, and values. Such self-discovery allows them to assert their individuality and autonomy.
• Enhanced Moral Reasoning and Empathy: Surprisingly, adolescent egocentrism can lead to improved moral reasoning and empathy. Teens begin to reflect on ethical and social issues, fostering a sense of justice, responsibility, and respect for diversity and human rights.

Negative Impacts

• Excessive Self-Consciousness and Insecurity: During adolescence, teens typically show increased creativity and curiosity, where their self-focus prompts them to delve into fresh concepts, hobbies, and potential paths. Consequently, they often develop a deeper fascination with the world around them and a greater appreciation for their own unique perspectives and abilities.
• Challenges in Communication and Relationships: Egocentrism may impair communication and relationships. They may find it challenging to understand and respect others’ perspectives and feelings, leading to conflicts, misunderstandings, and isolation in their interactions with peers, parents, and teachers.
• Engagement in Risky Behaviours: Egocentrism can lead teenagers to engage in risky and harmful behaviours. They may underestimate risks and overestimate their abilities, seeking thrills, novelty, and peer approval while disregarding societal norms and rules.

Such insight into the diverse effects of adolescent egocentrism empowers parents, educators, and caregivers with a deeper understanding. It enables them to guide adolescents through this phase while emphasising the value of providing support and encouragement.

How do Parents Address and Manage Egocentrism in Adolescence?

Parenting during the tween and teen years can be challenging, even for experienced caregivers. It’s a time when uncertainties can run high, and maintaining a strong connection with your teenager becomes risk-taking behaviour.

Here, we’ll share some approaches to help you stay calm and connected during this potentially tricky phase.

• Cultivate empathy through shared experiences
• Foster connections by embracing shared interests
• Open lines of communication with your teens
• Offer Support to help your child grow with love and encouragement

Let’s delve deeper into these.

Cultivate empathy through shared experiences

Close your eyes and reflect on your own adolescence. Recall the emotions you experienced during the changes in your body, your relationships with parents and friends, and the overall sense of self-consciousness.

While your teenage years might have been different, there are likely shared feelings of insecurity. Drawing on your own trials and tribulations can help you empathise with your children’s struggles.

Foster connections by embracing shared interests

While connecting with your teenagers may seem challenging, find ways to bond whenever possible.

For a daughter who enjoys stand-up comedy, taking her to a local comedy club or watching a stand-up special on TV together can be a fun and engaging way to bond. It’s an opportunity to share laughter and enjoy a shared interest.

Similarly, for a son fascinated by astronomy, planning a trip to the planetarium or spending an evening stargazing can be enlightening and a chance to connect. Building connections around shared interests or activities can be invaluable during the adolescent egocentrism phase.

Open lines of communication with your teens

Start to have conversations that matter to your children as they grow, such as puberty, peer pressure, relationships, and skincare usage. Your tweens and teens will form a solid conversational foundation they can rely on as they mature.

Offer Support to help your child grow with love and encouragement

Every child needs consistent support and unconditional love to grow into a well-rounded adult. While not being on the same page may sometimes be the case, parents still need to ensure their children feel supported and loved, regardless of their decision.

Once a child is recognised and applauded for their strengths and celebrated for their achievements, they tend to maintain a focus on the positive aspects of growth.

How do Educators Address and Manage Egocentrism in Adolescence?

Teachers uniquely shape young minds and influence children’s academic and social development, unlike parents. Here are some practical strategies educators utilise:

• Create an inclusive learning environment
• Provide engaging learning opportunities
• Foster critical thinking
• Instill social and emotional skills
• Collaborate with parents and professionals

Let’s shed light on these practical ways.

1. Create an Inclusive Learning Environment

When educators prioritise the creation of a classroom where adolescents feel safe and valued, it nurtures an atmosphere that encourages collaboration, mutual respect, and a sense of belonging among students.

2. Provide Engaging Learning Opportunities

Educators who offer stimulating learning experiences that resonate with adolescents’ interests, talents, and passions have a tendency to connect lessons to real-world scenarios, which spark curiosity and active participation.

3. Foster Critical Thinking

Students will likely learn critical thinking via school engagement; therefore, educators are the ones who expose adolescents to diverse perspectives, sources, and evidence. They encourage students to critically question, analyse, and evaluate information and arguments.

Educators help students broaden their horizons by nurturing critical thinking skills and developing empathy for others.

Find out more about critical thinking activities for kids.

4. Instill Social and Emotional Skills

Educators emphasise the significance of social and emotional skills, such as self-awareness, self-regulation, communication, and conflict resolution. They guide students in applying these skills across various contexts and provide support for managing emotions and overcoming challenges.

5. Collaborate with Parents and Professionals

Educators maintain close partnerships with parents, counsellors, psychologists, and social workers to ensure adolescents’ holistic development and well-being. They engage in open and regular communication with parents, sharing observations, addressing concerns, and offering recommendations regarding their students.

These strategies empower educators to address and manage adolescent egocentrism effectively while fostering a positive and enriching educational experience.

FAQs about Egocentrism in Adolescence

Most parents and educators are curious about adolescent egocentrism and its implications. Therefore, let’s explore some common questions and provide clear answers to deepen your understanding:

Can egocentrism in adolescence predict future behavioural patterns?

It’s not set in stone, but patterns formed during adolescence can sometimes linger into adulthood. Usually, it is considered a phase that shapes but doesn’t define a person’s future.

What are effective ways for teachers to address egocentrism in the classroom?

Group activities, constructive feedback, and addressing misconceptions head-on can help. It’s about guiding students to see beyond themselves.

How can teenagers themselves recognise and manage their egocentric tendencies?

Teens can learn a lot by simply being open to feedback, practising self-regulation, and getting involved in activities that focus on others’ well-being.

Handling Egocentrism in Adolescence

Egocentrism in adolescence is a complex but normal part of growing up. Whether you’re a parent, educator, or simply someone interested in developing young minds, you can assist them in recognising and managing this challenging phase.

Shaping a generation of self-aware and thoughtful adults to approach this journey as a shared experience between teenagers and those around them. Start a meaningful dialogue with your teenager, ask about their feelings and thoughts, and listen attentively to understand their perspective. Continue this process by consistently offering support and guidance during these transformative years, which empower teenagers to thrive.

At UNIS Hanoi, we believe in the power of education to transform lives, including supporting teenagers through the ups and downs of adolescence.

When we delve into language development in early childhood, we’re looking at how children start communicating. This is the phase where little ones begin to talk, listen, and make sense of their environment. It’s a period where children start forming their first words, crafting sentences, and engaging in conversations. This language growth helps children express thoughts, explore new concepts, and form social bonds.

In this article, we’ll explore the stages of this fascinating development, from the initial babbling to the more structured language skills they acquire by school age, highlighting its importance in a child’s early years.

What is Language Development in Early Childhood?

Language development in early childhood is a complex process starting at birth, where children learn how to communicate as they grow. At this stage, children pick up two milestone aspects of language: ‘receptive language’, where they grasp what is being said to them, and ‘expressive language’, which is all about expressing their thoughts and feelings.

The journey begins with learning various sounds, then moves on to understanding the meanings of words, and gradually, they learn to string these words together into sentences. They use language for many things, like asking questions, telling stories, or engaging in daily conversation.

In essence, they’re learning all the ways to talk and listen that they need to talk to people and understand them.

3 Stages of Language Development

Early childhood language development occurs in three key stages, each marked by distinct milestones and challenges.

Prelingual Period (age 0-1 years)

In the first year of life, babies are already on their path to language development even before they start speaking. This stage is called the Prelingual Period. Here, babies listen and learn from the sounds around them. They begin by making cooing sounds and gradually move to babbling. They also recognise familiar voices and sounds, like their parents or a lullaby. This period is essential for building the foundation for future language skills.

Early Lingual Period (1 to 3 years)

As babies turn into toddlers, they enter the Early Lingual Period. This is when the magic of speaking starts. From saying their first words, usually around their first birthday, they quickly combine words into short sentences. When they are around three years old, their vocabulary explodes, and they start using language more purposefully – to ask for things, express feelings, or tell simple stories. This period is marked by significant advancements in both understanding and speaking.

Differentiation Period (3 – 6 years)

Between the ages of three and six, children enter the Differentiation Period. This is a time of rapid growth in language abilities. Children start forming more complex sentences, asking lots of questions, and using language to explore the world around them. They become more skilled storytellers and start understanding more abstract concepts through language. This period is crucial for refining language skills and preparing for school life’s more complex language demands.

Learning English Language in Early Childhood

Embarking on the adventure of learning English during the early years can be both exhilarating and challenging for young learners. Programs like the “English as an Additional Language” (EAL) at UNIS Hanoi are expertly designed to guide children through this journey.

Let’s look at these stages, which form the backbone of effective language learning for young children.

Listening

The first step in learning a new language, especially for young children, is listening. Kids are like sponges during this stage – they absorb English sounds, rhythms, and intonation. It’s all about understanding spoken language, from the simple greetings to the complex sentences. Activities in the EAL program are designed to enhance this auditory learning, making it both fun and educational.

Speaking

Once children get a good grasp of listening, they start to speak. This is where they experiment with making sounds, forming words, and, eventually, stringing these words into sentences. It’s thrilling as children express their thoughts and needs in English. In an EAL setting, speaking activities are often interactive, involving role-plays, sing-alongs, or simple conversations, encouraging kids to practice and improve their spoken English in a supportive environment.

Reading

Reading is the next stage, where children start recognising letters and words, gradually understanding written English. It’s a crucial skill that lays the foundation for academic learning. In an EAL program, reading is introduced through various child-friendly materials like picture books, labels, and simple narratives, all aimed at building vocabulary and comprehension skills in a gradual, enjoyable way.

Writing

The final stage in learning English is writing – a skill allowing children to express their thoughts and ideas on paper. It starts with simple scribbling, forms letters, and eventually to writing words and sentences. Writing activities in EAL programs are tailored to be engaging and age-appropriate, often integrating art and creativity to make the learning process enjoyable for young minds.

Each stage plays a significant role in a child’s language learning journey, helping them build a strong foundation in English that will serve them well throughout their academic and personal lives.

Strategies to Support Language Development in Early Childhood

Various engaging and interactive methods can be employed to help a child with language development. Common approaches to developing early language skill development in children include:

1. TPR method
2. Long-term memory method
3. Songs
4. Games
5. Stories

Apply TPR Method (Total Physical Response Method)

The Total Physical Response Method is an immersive experience that integrates physical activity into language learning. This method has been widely recognised for its effectiveness in teaching action words and phrases.

• Active Learning: Kids learn new words and phrases through physical movements, making the learning process lively and memorable.
• Engagement: This method is perfect for kids full of energy and love moving around.
• Long-term Retention: Children are more likely to remember what they learn by associating actions with words.

Use Long Term Memory Method

The Long Term Memory Method taps into the brain’s natural processing abilities, making language learning more efficient and sustainable.

• Repeating is Key: This method is about repeating words so kids remember them.
• Fun Practice: Through games and activities, kids practice words in different ways, which helps them remember better.
• Making it Stick: Regular practice helps move words from something kids just heard to something they know.

Use Songs

Songs are a natural and enjoyable way for children to learn language. Children can effortlessly pick up new vocabulary, sentence structures, and pronunciation through catchy tunes and repetitive lyrics.

• Learning with Music: Songs make learning fun. Kids love music, and it helps them remember words and sentences.
• Singing Along: Catchy tunes make kids want to sing along, which is a great way to learn.
• Easy to Remember: Song rhythm and repetition help kids memorise words and phrases.

Leverage Games

Games transform language learning into an exciting and enjoyable activity, encouraging kids to engage with language in a playful setting.

• Learning Through Play: Games make language learning feel like play, which keeps children interested and motivated.
• Stress-Free Environment: The relaxed nature of games reduces pressure, making language learning more effective.
• Social Interaction: Many language games involve interaction, which is excellent for practising conversational skills.

Use Stories

Stories captivate children’s imaginations and provide a rich context for language learning, making new words and phrases more meaningful.

• Contextual Learning: Stories introduce new words engagingly and contextually.
• Imagination and Memory: Engaging with stories stimulates children’s imagination, aiding in language retention.
• Cultural Exploration: Children learn about different cultures through stories, enhancing their language learning experience.

Each of these methods ensures that children learn language effectively and enjoy the process of learning it.

More Insights of Early Language Development

Language development in early childhood is a continuous journey that shapes a child’s ability to communicate and interact with the world. Understanding its stages and employing effective learning methods can significantly enhance this development.

Additional resources and information are readily available for those interested in further exploring this crucial developmental phase or seeking quality language learning programs like the EAL program at UNIS Hanoi. Embracing this journey early in life paves the way for successful communication and academic achievement in the years to come.

During the toddler stage, a time of substantial intellectual, emotional, and interpersonal development, children start to develop essential self-care abilities that are vital for their independence and self-esteem.

Parenting through the toddler years can be a remarkable journey, as this is when your child begins to show their individuality and capabilities in various self-help skills for toddlers. This article will delve into the different types of self-help skills that toddlers can learn, complete with examples.

What are Self-Help Skills?

Self-help skills for preschoolers are the basic tasks and behaviors that children learn to do independently, contributing to their overall development. They encompass a range of activities, from dressing themselves to expressing emotions appropriately.

That being said, mastering of these skills signifies stepping stones towards autonomy and forms a foundation for further learning and social integration.

Top 18 Self-Help Skills for Preschoolers

Transitioning into the crux of self-help skills, we break them down by category. Here are some essential self-help skills arranged by the developmental areas they support, along with examples of activities toddlers engage in to hone these skills.

1. Dress and Undress (2-3 Years)

Toddlers around the age of two start to show interest in dressing themselves. While they may not get everything right—like putting shoes on the correct feet or pants forwards—this trial and error is a significant step towards independence. For example, a child might initially struggle with zippers and buttons but gradually learn to use them with practice and parental guidance.

2. Self-Feeding (1-2 Years)

At this stage, toddlers transition from being fed to wanting to feed themselves. A one-year-old might start by grabbing a spoon and attempting to scoop food, often spilling most of it. By two years, the same child will likely be able to bring the spoon to their mouth with a much better aim, displaying improved hand-eye coordination.

3. Basic Hygiene (From an early age)

From the time they can sit up unassisted, children can start learning basic hygiene. Initially, it could be as simple as wiping their mouth with a napkin. By the time they’re toddlers, they’re ready to start learning to wash their hands, brush their teeth with help, and even attempt to wipe themselves after using the toilet under their parents’ supervision.

4. Toileting (2-3 Years)

The journey from diapers to using the toilet is a huge leap in self-help skills. It begins with recognizing the signs that they need to go and eventually being able to communicate this. The process often involves a lot of encouragement and praise from parents as the child learns to use the potty and, later, the toilet, with steps and a modified seat.

5. Grooming (2-3 Years)

Through grooming, toddlers learn the benefits of self-help skills for toddlers by starting to take pride in their appearance and gaining autonomy. They will start to imitate the grooming habits they see in adults. For instance, they may want to try brushing their hair or teeth independently. Though the initial attempts may be clumsy, with time and practice, they can perform these tasks with increasing precision.

6. Shoe Tying (2-3 Years)

This skill often comes later in the toddler stage, as it requires fine motor skills and coordination that are more developed. Parents can help by teaching the “bunny ears” method of tying shoelaces or encouraging practice with lace boards before moving on to actual shoes.

7. Identify and Express Emotions (1-2 Years)

Toddlers begin to understand and label emotions such as happy, sad, or angry. A child might say “me happy” when they are enjoying playtime or may express frustration by throwing a toy when they cannot complete a task. Parents can help by naming these emotions and validating their feelings.

8. Develop Coping Mechanisms (2-3 Years)

When toddlers experience negative emotions, they start to develop ways to cope. For example, toddlers might hug their favorite stuffed animal when they feel scared, take deep breaths, or seek out a parent for comfort if they’re upset. This self-soothing is critical for emotional regulation.

9. Understand Empathy (2-3 Years)

As toddlers interact with their peers, they may offer a toy or a hug to a crying playmate, demonstrating an emerging ability to empathize with others and respond in a caring manner. This budding empathy is crucial for their social development and lays the foundation for healthy relationships in the future.

10. Foster Independence (18 months- 3 Years)

A toddler’s desire to do things themselves showcases their developing self-care skills and independence. Whether it’s selecting their own outfits or trying to pour their own milk, these actions reflect their burgeoning sense of independence. As parents, you can foster this growth by providing them with safe opportunities to try new tasks and offering choices within limits.

11. Sharing and Cooperation (2-3 Years)

During playdates, a toddler may initially struggle with sharing a favourite toy. However, with encouragement and practice, they start to understand the value of taking turns. For instance, a parent can use a timer to allocate equal playtime with a toy between their child and a friend, teaching sharing and cooperation.

12. Understand Boundaries (2-3 Years)

Learning and respecting boundaries is part of developing self-care skills and independence, helping toddlers understand their limits and the limits of others. Toddlers learn that certain things are not allowed, like hitting or biting. They might need frequent reminders and consistent consequences, but over time, they start to respect these boundaries. A common scenario is a toddler being reminded to use “gentle hands” with pets or peers.

13. Build Friendships (18 months-3 Years)

At this age, children’s friendships are often formed based on who they play with regularly. Shared activities, like building a block tower together, allow them to develop a bond. Parents can help foster these relationships by arranging playdates and guiding the children through cooperative play.

14. Follow Instructions (18 months-3 Years)

Toddlers begin to follow simple, two-step directions, such as “please pick up the ball and put it in the box.” This indicates they can listen, understand, and act on what’s being asked, a crucial cognitive skill.

15. Develop Curiosity and Exploration (Ages 1 – 3 years)

A toddler’s curiosity might lead them to explore how water spills from a cup or what happens when they mix different colours of playdough. This exploration is fundamental for cognitive development and can be encouraged through open-ended play.

16. Do Basic Chores (2-3 Years)

Engaging in basic chores is a practical self-help activity for toddlers that instils a sense of responsibility and belonging. Simple chores like putting toys back in the bin or helping to set the table are suitable tasks for toddlers. It teaches them responsibility and gives them a sense of contribution to the family.

17. Understand Safety Rules and Practices (2-3 Years)

A crucial part of developing self-care skills and independence involves learning safety rules and practices. Children must learn basic safety rules, like knowing they must hold an adult’s hand when crossing the street or not touching the stove. Parents play a key role in repeating these rules and explaining their importance to ensure they stick.

18. Navigate Technology (2-3 Years)

Many toddlers can navigate a smartphone or tablet with surprising skill. While screen time should be limited, appropriate use of technology can serve as an effective cognitive self-help activity for toddlers. For example, a toddler might tap on an educational app to play a game.

Parental Involvement in Enhancing Toddlers’ Self-help Skills

Parents are the anchors of a child’s world, and your involvement is crucial in nurturing these self-help skills.

By creating an environment that encourages exploration and learning from mistakes, parents can significantly contribute to their child’s development. This involves providing age-appropriate tools and materials that stimulate curiosity and learning. Celebrating small victories is equally important as it boosts the child’s confidence and motivates them to take on more challenging tasks.

Parents should guide and support their toddlers through these tasks without completely taking over. Additionally, setting up playdates and facilitating social interactions with peers and adults can help toddlers learn important social skills and behaviours. Through these strategies, parents can effectively enhance their toddlers’ self-help skills.

Conclusion

Developing self-help skills for toddlers is a crucial part of growth and development and lay the groundwork for essential life skills for kids. These skills help toddlers become more independent and boost their confidence and self-esteem. As parents, supporting and encouraging your toddlers as they learn these new skills is important. Each toddler is distinct and will rapidly acquire these abilities. So, remain calm, give plenty of encouragement, and above all, relish this thrilling phase of your toddler’s growth! Learn more about UNIS Hanoi’s magical Early Years Childhood Centre and how we will help your child build up a solid foundation for them to embark on their school journey.