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kid with toy dinosaurs kid with toy dinosaurs kid with toy dinosaur kid with toy dinosaur

Early Learning Tip: Intense interest in one topic

Dinosaurs, dragons or dogs, oh my!

A customer recently asked for some books about dinosaurs. They pointed out their child and explained the child is totally consumed with dinosaurs. In fact, the child in tow was wearing a shirt with a tyrannosaurus rex dinosaur on it. When I asked for some clarification, the child told me which dinosaur was their favorite and why. I smiled because this moment had happened before. 

Between the ages of 2 and 6 years, children develop an intense interest in a topic or even a popular character. Early childhood experts report that about one-third of children really get into one particular thing. This is due in part to the importance of pretend play and imaginary worlds at this age. Young children use pretend play to make sense of their world, to solve problems and to practice new skills. Research shows there are benefits to this focused interest including a longer attention span, sound comprehension, heightened curiosity, increased knowledge and extensive processing skills.

Nurturing your child's passion to learn

Whatever your child’s interest, embrace his / her ideas and feelings. Find out as much as you can. Seek out facts. Ask questions. Explore together. Support his / her interest and expand on their explorations. Go to the library. Visit a museum or another location that focuses on their interest (zoo, train depot, etc.). 

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