To help your child become an autonomous and resilient learner:
Be sure not to over-program his afternoons and weekends.
It is very important for your child to get involved in extra-curricular activities that help him develop hobbies and remain physically active. However, it is just as important to leave some down-time in his weekly schedule for relaxation and socializing.
In their book entitled Simplicity Parenting, Kim John Payne and Lisa M. Ross explain how over-programming a child’s life can actually decrease his sense of motivation and limit his creativity.
It’s all about striking a healthy balance. Allowing your child to have some down-time – without looking at a screen! – will give him an opportunity to reflect, to use his mind creatively, and to make choices. Activities that exercise the brain, boost creativity, strengthen social connections or foster mindfulness are all good options. So, consider incorporating things like reading, playing cards or board games, listening to music, or hanging out with friends into your child’s daily routine.