Toddlers’ learning abilities are nothing short of remarkable. From their uncanny knack for picking up new words to their rapid grasp of complex concepts, toddlers seem to absorb information effortlessly. But what exactly makes them such adept learners? Let’s delve into the fascinating reasons behind toddlers’ exceptional learning prowess.

1

Brain Development

One of the major reasons that toddlers are so good at learning is that their brains aren’t fully formed yet.  In particular, toddlers’ prefrontal cortex is not developed the same way that it is in adults. Now, the prefrontal cortex is where memory is stored, which is very useful for adults. In fact, it allows adults to remember and recognize all sorts of objects, concepts and other useful information. But, it also means that adult brains are less flexible and inventive relative to toddler brains, and this can inhibit learning.

2

Love for Repetition

Another factor contributing to toddlers’ learning abilities are their love for repetitions. Toddlers thrive on repeating activities and experiences, which reinforces their learning. Whether it’s reading the same book over and over or playing the same game repeatedly, toddlers’ affinity for repetition helps solidify new knowledge.

For example, let’s say that as an adult, you want to learn sign language. You might get a great book on sign language and review all of the different signs once or twice. But, after a little while, adults tend to get bored with the repetition and seek stimulation elsewhere. Toddlers on the other hand will be content, and in fact delighted, to go through the book over and over again. Naturally, this really helps the new knowledge to sink in.

3

Curiosity and Exploration

Young kids are like explorers, and every day brings a new adventure. Every time a toddler steps outside, they are bound to learn something new. One day, they might notice clouds in the sky and ask what they are. Another day, they might see a stop sign and want to know more about it.

Toddlers are observing and noticing new things all the time. So, it’s quite natural for them to ask a nearby adult all sorts of questions throughout the day. By adulthood, most adults are not quite so curious about the world. A toddler’s curiosity and willingness to ask lots of questions is one of the key reasons they are so good at learning.

4

Harnessing Their Natural Abilities

Since toddlers are such great learners, it can be a really good idea to expose them to all sorts of new and stimulating experiences. If you want to help them to learn about art, you might get them some toddler crayons or an easel. If you want to teach them about animals, you might get a book on the topic, or just bring them to the zoo and push them around in a wagon to see all sorts of animals up close and in person.

Whatever your little one is interested in learning about, there are usually fun ways to help them dig deeper. And, there are very few things in life that are more fun than watching a child learn about the world.