Encourage a Love of Learning in Young Learners

How to Encourage a Love of Learning in Young Learners

90% of a child’s brain develops before age five. That means young learners are in one of the most important learning windows of their lives—and as parents, you have a powerful opportunity to shape that journey.

At I’m Just a Kid, we believe learning should feel joyful, natural, and full of discovery. This is where a lifelong love of learning begins!

Why Fostering a Love of Learning Matters

Children are naturally curious. They ask questions, explore new things, and take in the world with wide eyes. But when we nurture that curiosity intentionally, we help transform it into a love of learning that lasts well beyond the toddler years.

This love of learning isn’t just about academics. It’s about confidence. Creativity. Problem-solving. When toddlers feel safe and supported in their learning environment, they build skills that support success in school—and in life.

What Sparks Learning?

Real Experiences, Real Growth

Toddlers thrive when they’re immersed in hands-on, real-world learning. Think sand play, stacking blocks, watching butterflies, or dancing to a favorite song. These aren’t just fun—they’re brain-building moments!

In the world of early childhood education, this type of play-based learning is central. It activates multiple areas of the brain and makes learning meaningful.

Repetition with Variation

Young learners love to repeat. It’s how they build confidence and master new skills. But a little variation keeps things exciting. Reading the same story? Try using different voices for the characters. Playing with blocks again? Add a new challenge like building a bridge.

Actionable Ways to Encourage a Love of Learning

1. Make Curiosity the Star

Follow your child’s interests. If your young learner is obsessed with animals, turn it into a mini learning theme—books about animals, animal sounds, a visit to the zoo. Learning becomes more memorable when it’s tied to something they already love.

2. Create a Yes Space

Set up an environment where your young learners are free to explore safely. Low shelves, sensory bins, sturdy books, and open-ended toys invite children to make their own choices and discover how things work.

This encourages independence—and confidence in their ability to learn.

3. Use Everyday Moments as Teaching Tools

Washing dishes? Talk about the bubbles. Going for a walk? Count how many red cars you see. Simple activities become rich learning opportunities when you narrate your thinking and ask questions.

4. Celebrate the Process, Not Just the Outcome

When your toddler stacks blocks carefully before they tumble down, celebrate the effort. Say things like, “You worked hard on that!” or “I saw how focused you were.” This teaches children that learning is about trying, not just getting it “right.”

5. Read, Talk, and Sing Every Day

These three daily habits support language development, imagination, and connection. Reading introduces new vocabulary. Talking builds communication skills. Singing helps with memory and rhythm. Keep it light, silly, and interactive!

How I’m Just a Kid Supports Young Learners

At I’m Just a Kid, we create a space where learning is playful, purposeful, and rooted in relationships. Our educators use a child-centered, developmentally appropriate approach that encourages exploration, curiosity, and self-expression.

We incorporate sensory play, storytelling, music, art, and nature into our daily routines. These experiences are aligned with research-based practices in early childhood education, and designed to meet toddlers right where they are—eager, active, and full of questions.

Our classrooms are filled with wonder and warmth, where children feel free to be themselves. That’s when the magic of learning happens.

Partner with I’m Just a Kid to Nurture Your Young Learners

Learning happens in the small, everyday moments—when we pause to look at a worm on the sidewalk or count blueberries at snack time. It thrives in safe, engaging spaces where children are free to play, explore, and make mistakes.

The most powerful thing we can do? Encourage curiosity. Invite questions. Offer choices. And be fully present. When toddlers feel seen and supported, they grow into confident learners who are excited about the world.

At I’m Just a Kid, we’re committed to helping families nurture the joy of discovery in their children. Our toddler programs are carefully crafted to support education through meaningful play, nurturing relationships, and evidence-based practices.

Ready to learn more about how we can support your child’s journey? Contact us today and let’s grow together—one joyful learning moment at a time!

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I just wanted to share that Cassius has had a phenomenal junior kindergarten year at St. George. He’s so excited to be reading books. His teacher said he’s so kind, empathetic, and incredibly smart. And she asked where he did preschool because he was so ahead. ☺️ Thank you for giving Gracie and Cassius the best foundation to succeed! I’m thankful for you and IJAK!
Cassius’s Mom
We visited I’m Just a Kid after visiting 6 other early childhood centers and crying at the thought of leaving our first born after our leave was over! To say we breathed a sigh of relief at finding, I’m Just a Kid is an understatement! We have been a part of the family for 6 years, with our first now in kindergarten and our second child still at I’m Just a Kid. We felt so prepared for kinder and the transition was a breeze thanks to I’m Just a Kid. No matter if your child is succeeding or needing some extra love and attention, the I’m Just a Kid family is there to help your family along the way. I’m Just a Kid really is more than “just” a daycare!
Tara Karns-Wright
I’m just a kid not only taught my daughter, they cared for her like a family member. As an educator, I was seeking a daycare that could meet my needs. We found more than a daycare. We found a place that cared deeply for the social, emotional, academic, and cultural needs of our daughter. Now that she is in fourth grade, we still talk about I’m just a kid and the amazing staff that cared so deeply for her. Thank you I’m just a kid for laying the foundation and helping create a better world through education.
Bradley Tarrance
I’m Just a Kid is a wonderful place for my child, for any child, to learn, to play, and to grow. Mrs. Vicki and her wonderful team of teachers truly create an environment that is safe and loving. My son was having a difficult time at his previous school. We reached out to Mrs. Vicki and through her guidance and support he’s happy again! His teachers are passionate about seeing him succeed and they bring out the best in him. Our family is so grateful for our I’m Just A Kid Family.
Laura Riebesehl
We had our two children at I’m Just a Kid for multiple years ranging from six months to four years old and we were so happy to have them there. They learned, played, and grew every day. The school always had the kids’ best interest at heart, and we always felt they were being well cared for while also learning and growing every day. We are so happy with how well I’m Just a Kid prepared our children for kindergarten.
Kirk M. Tracy

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