Television programs like the recently started NOVA series, Fabric of the Cosmos are incredible learning tools and inspirational shows that contribute to our learning and enrich our lives. In addition, and particularly with the example given above, these educational programs are also incredibly interesting and fun to watch. And when you make a family night out of a bowl of popcorn and sitting together watching a program such as What is Time, this can not only increase family bonds and strengthen relationships, but you’ll be surprised what it can do for your children’s academic studies. And if you’re interested in incorporating these and other shows into your children’s learning structure, you can actually plan ahead and discuss homework topics while watching. You might have to be a bit strategic about weaving your child’s physics homework into an evening of television, but it can, has and will continue to be done.
For example, if you purchase some flash cards that deal with math, physics or astronomy, or even make your own if you’re feeling particularly industrious, and make a fun activity oriented evening out of them, it will not only help solidify the associated lesson in your child, but will entice them into further studies. Whenever learning is incorporated into play, family activities and fun, it will greatly increase your child’s learning and even interest in studying. And if you have more children in the same age group, or class topics, you can even create a competitive association, though of course this can cause other issues, so be aware of academic competition with your children. However, when it’s all in good spirit and a community oriented activity, you’ll be amazed at how easy it is to get your children to pay attention.
Imagine the possibilities with introducing them to the basic concepts, or even idea, of quantum mechanics. Even if the math and program topics go well beyond your own educational background, you can use these physics games to help your child, and maybe even yourselves, become comfortable with the subject. And if you include a great PBS program like NOVA in your plan, you’ll have the expertise and enthusiasm of Brian Greene to guide you along. And who knows, you might be well on the way to inspiring the next generation’s Einstein. If you have the ability to unite the theories of television time among two opposing family members, one of them just might find the unifying theory of everything, one day. And at the very least, you might be creating a couple of entangled particles , but that’s no surprise. How often do your children have exactly the opposite response to your suggestions, instructions and ideas anyway?
