Children are most likely to learn and remember things when there is repetition–practice, reminders, etc. For this reason, if children are being introduced to new concepts in school, or learning something in church or sports or another extra-curricular activity, as parents we can reinforce that learning at home to make it more likely that the child will retain it.
Of course, this parenting approach means that we need to take an active interest so that we know what the child is learning elsewhere. Talk to the child, pay attention when you are sitting on the sidelines at soccer practice or ask to see what she is working on in Girl Scouts. Sometimes just looking at the papers the child brings home from Sunday school or school can be helpful, but it is even better to have a conversation with the child to see what he or she is learning and what is going on in his or her world so that you can reinforce the good stuff.
Don’t expect the school or the teacher or the coach to take care of everything. Finding a way to visit a museum or living history project to support something the child is learning in school, or doing a family activity that “backs up” the topics being covered in church can give you a way to be involved and supportive as a parent, but it can also allow you the opportunity to share your own “spin” on these topics. You can share core values and belief systems that you may hold and help the child work through any questions that he might have as well. The repetition will support the learning and retention and your involvement will provide added support for the child as well as let you know what the child is actually learning.
Also: The Education blog