Curiosity is one of those beautiful innate qualities that encourage children to learn and explore them. Curiosity in children is apparent even as early newborns trying to decipher their surroundings. It’s a quality that is both wondrous and sometimes inconvenient – and one that has significant benefits. Do you have a curious child?
4 Essential Benefits of Curiosity in Children
That natural curiosity in children doesn’t often fit in the adult world, and it can be unintentionally discouraged. However, research shows the benefits of being curious far outweigh any inconveniences.
Curiosity Leads to Persistence
A curious child wants to know the why and how behind everything. This cultivates a natural tendency to brainstorm and experiment to come up with potential solutions to problems.
This ability to try and tackle problems from different angles leads to persistence. Curious people are more resilient in the face of anxiety and uncertainty (source). Instead of giving up at the first obstacle, the interested child will try to create a solution.
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Curiosity Helps Foster Empathy
Empathy is a crucial trait for developing emotional maturity and meaningful connections with others. One of the benefits of being curious is that it naturally makes you try to imagine what someone else is feeling.
A curious child wonders how other people experience the world, helping them develop empathy and compassion.
Curiosity Helps Foster Empathy
Empathy is a crucial trait for developing emotional maturity and meaningful connections with others. One of the benefits of being curious is that it naturally makes you try to imagine what someone else is feeling.
A curious child wonders how other people experience the world, helping them develop empathy and compassion.
How to Encourage Curiosity in Children
How can we help encourage more curiosity in children? Here are a few simple ways we can help:
- Be a model of curiosity. Ask questions out loud and find the answer with your child. “Why is the sunset so colorful?” or “What happens if we take a different road to school today?” Also, make sure you’re trying new things or taking a class in a new interest area. Children will learn that curiosity is a natural part of life.
- Ask what they think. Before answering questions or explaining something to your child, ask them what they think. Thoughtfully listen to their answers and wait to respond until they’re finished speaking.
- Let them explore their passions. Whenever your curious child becomes interested in something new, let them explore it as much as possible. They may be fascinated with a specific period in history or how cars work. Give them time and opportunity to explore different parts of that passion.
More About Raising Curious & Resilient Kids
Ready to learn more about teaching kids the skills they need to live a full and happy life? Click here to grab my free ebook and learn how you can help your child learn self-care habits early in life.
Thanks for reading,
Stephanie 🧡 Founder/Owner of Balancing Elephants and creator of the BE Buddy®
P.S. If you are looking for more ideas and tools to help your child discover their coping strategies, sign up to join our community, or follow us on Instagram at @bebuddy.
