Driving Learning in a Lifelong Direction

Learning is categorized into three distinct types: formal, non-formal, and informal. Formal learning typically occurs within structured environments such as schools or universities, following a standardized curriculum with the aim of obtaining qualifications or degrees. Non-formal learning, on the other hand, is more flexible and often takes place outside traditional academic settings, like workshops or community courses, where the participation is voluntary and the focus is on self-evaluation. Informal learning is the most organic, happening naturally through everyday experiences, interactions, and observations, as individuals absorb information from their environment, peers, or media, without any structured framework. Each type plays a crucial role in personal and professional development, contributing uniquely to an individual's lifelong learning journey.

Whether you are homeschooling or not, parents have various ways to guide their children's non-formal and informal learning. The most crucial action parents can take is to lead by example. Just as Our Father through Jesus Christ carried the cross, we too can strive to embody the standards we set for our children. By keeping up with our own chores, being clean and organized, and by following the Golden Rule, we inspire our children to adopt these habits as well.

When it comes to academic, athletic, or artistic endeavors, one effective way to foster achievement is by establishing benchmarks while allowing the child to navigate their own path toward them. For instance, when a toddler is learning to tie their shoes, the benchmark could be, “Tie your shoes by yourself.” Instead of directly showing, allow the child to ask, “Can you show me how?” If they don’t require your assistance, that’s fantastic and deserving of praise. However, if they do seek your help, demonstrating self-awareness and making effective use of available resources is equally commendable.

Siblings and cousins can be a tremendous asset for parents as well! Don't hesitate to seek suggestions from other children, as their closer age often provides them with meaningful insights to share. Research indicates that the true value of peer-to-peer learning resides in the retention of not just the knowledge and skills acquired, but also the journey that brings people to that understanding.

Learning is a lifelong endeavor that thrives on a blend of formal, non-formal, and informal experiences. Each type offers unique benefits and opportunities for growth, shaping individuals in diverse and meaningful ways. Parents play a pivotal role in guiding this journey by setting positive examples and fostering an environment that encourages curiosity and independence. Whether through setting achievable benchmarks or encouraging peer-to-peer learning, the support and encouragement from both family and community can significantly enhance a child's development. Ultimately, by nurturing a love for learning, we empower our children to explore, question, and succeed in all facets of life.