Opposites

Opposites

By:  Dr. Anna L. Scott

Isn’t it exciting to watch a child finally grasp a lesson or idea? Children are visual learners long before words are even spoken. They are aware and familiar of people, surrounding, or sounds. However, as they mature, they associate words with visuals. The word CAT can be identified by a picture. Later, they realize the word CAT may mean a large variety of cats, yet the word CAT still applies.

So, it is with words! A word may have many different meanings, but when the concept of identifying the “opposite” word is introduced, the thinking process changes. The child must think of things occurring in an opposite way. Take the words “hot” and “cold.” A child may identify it by the written or visual; however, parents should always try to extend the thinking process and encourage more than one verbal answer. Ask the child what other things may be hot or cold. Encourage thinking. Opposites takes this concept and educates parents on how to stimulate a child to think different beyond written words and visuals. Later, it will encourage imagination and, perhaps, even the writing of their own books.