Marc Ducrest (Geneva) believes that fostering deep learning in students is not just the duty of teachers. Parents should also be part of setting their kids up for success. But wait, what’s the big deal about this concept? Let me break it down for you:

Deep learning goes way beyond just memorizing facts. It promotes critical thinking, sparks curiosity, and cultivates a lifelong passion for learning among younglings. So, how exactly can you (as a parent) support this journey?

In this blog, Marc Ducrest will share my tried-and-true tips with Geneva parents to create a home environment that inspires deep, meaningful learning for your children.

Marc Ducrest’s Learning Strategies for Geneva Parents

These are some of the proven tips by Marc Ducrest that will help Geneva parents (hopefully others too) in teaching their children deep learning at home:

Encourage curiosity

Marc Ducrest feels that the future belongs to the curious. I’ve often told parents during meetings that curiosity is the driving force behind deep learning. Rather than sticking to strict lesson plans, you should foster your child’s innate sense of wonder. For instance, you can pose questions like:

• Why do you think the sky is blue?

• How would you go about designing a bridge?

You can also explore documentaries, books, and hands-on experiments together. Kids diving into the subjects they are excited about means learning is now transforming into adventure rather than a chore for them. Appreciate their questions. Even quirky ones. Ask Marc Ducrest, doing this will show that knowledge isn’t just about finding answers but also about joy of discovery.

Create a learning-friendly environment

Marc Ducrest (Geneva) wants to ask Geneva parents a simple question - can you work in a messy, noisy environment? I believe most of you will say NO. And it’s true. It can really hinder concentration. The same is the case for your children. I would recommend creating a dedicated learning corner.

Make sure it’s well-lit, organized, and free from distractions like TV or noisy siblings. Fill it with books, puzzles, and supplies to spark creativity. Parents will notice their child’s brain has started to associate the space with focused work. Making it easy for them to switch into deep learning mode.

Even small touches (like motivational quote posters and plants) can make an area feel more inviting, says Marc Ducrest!

Promote critical thinking

Repeating facts? Deep learning goes beyond that. It’s about grasping why things work the way they do. Geneva parents should teach their children to think, not just memorize. Marc Ducrest encourages taking on the role of guide, not a guru. Instead of solving a math problem for them, ask - What strategy could you try?

And that’s not it. You could also try these initiatives:

• Discussing real-world issues at dinner table

• Analyzing movie plots

• Engaging in strategy games

I’ve seen that when children learn to question, reason, and defend their ideas, they cultivate sharper, more independent minds.

Connect learning to real life

Here’s one of the biggest deep learning for students tips from Marc Ducrest! Knowledge that you are providing to your kids makes it stick. Abstract concepts become more memorable when linked to real-life experiences. For example, if your child is having issues with solving fraction questions, bake a pizza and slice it up.

Talk about physics while playing sports. Discuss economics during grocery shopping. When your children see how lessons apply to their everyday lives, they are likely to retain that knowledge.

Limit passive screen time

The biggest thumbs down nowadays is endless scrolling and watching mindless videos. Marc Ducrest Geneva feels that these turn students into learning zombies. Instead of letting screens take over, parents should make screen time a chance of deep, active learning. How about watching a science documentary on volcanoes together and then building a model of it?

Marc Ducrest recommends using educational apps that challenge them to solve problems instead of just tapping away. Encourage students to research a topic online and present what they find. Keep in mind - screens should inspire interaction, not replace it.

Things turning boring? Don’t worry, Marc Ducrest suggests trading an hour of video games for a family debate or fun DIY project. When screens become tools for learning rather than distractions, the joy of discovery comes alive.

Model a growth mindset

You might have heard that quote, “Mistakes are the best teachers.” Marc Ducrest 100% agrees with it. Failure is just a stepping stone. I encourage Geneva parents to talk with their kids about it. For example, when you’re trying to learn something new (say cooking, coding, or even yoga), do it in front of your child.

Share your struggles. Oh, this is tricky but I’ll try a different way. Celebrate the effort, not just the outcome. Like I usually told my students or even my own kids that they worked so hard on that essay instead of saying they are so smart.

When kids see their parents facing challenges head-on, they learn resilience - a great trait of deep learning!

Collaborate with teachers

According to Marc Ducrest, education is not less than a relay race. In it, teachers and parents need to pass the baton together. As a retired elementary teacher in Geneva, I would really ask parents to make it a point to attend school meetings. Don’t hesitate to ask teachers like me, “How can I support deep learning at home?”

Share your child’s interests or challenges with them. If they are diving into ancient Egypt, why not plan a trip to the museum? Or if math is proving tricky, ask for some fun game ideas to practice. Teachers can provide valuable insights while parents can offer real-world context.

Together, both can build a safe deep learning road where students can take a bigger leap.

Marc Ducrest’s Final Note to Geneva Parents

Above are some proven strategies shared by Marc Ducrest that Geneva parents can consider to nurture deep learning at home. Remember, even small, consistent efforts can make the BIGGEST impact. Your support will help your child build a lifelong love for learning. Start with one or two tips that I’ve mentioned. See what works and gradually incorporate more.

What are your thoughts about deep learning? Share them with others in the comment section!

Check these resources as well:

Marc Ducrest Geneva on Quora

Marc Ducrest Geneva on Linktree

Marc Ducrest Geneva on Youtube