Can exposure to the news improve learning?

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(Image credit: Future)

The Week Junior welcomes new study which finds discussing current affairs with children can have significant benefits for child development.

Over 1000 children aged 8-15, teachers and parents were surveyed as part of the study by child development expert Dr Jacqueline Harding.

(Image credit: Future)

Key findings:

  • Children expressed their belief that learning about real world events or news increases their motivation to learn - a view supported by both parents and teachers.
  • Engaging in discussion and giving children the tools to understand real world events has the potential to deepen academic learning and enhance cognitive growth.
  • Building a child’s resilience will support the transition period to secondary school.
  • Discussing current affairs can support the development of critical thinking skills.

Dr Harding recommends closer co-ordination between home and school to help equip parents with the tools to talk about difficult subjects, supporting children make sense of the world around them and spark curiosity.

For more information, please contact Sara Ghaffari at PLMR on 0203 691 9434

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