Socialization doesn’t always have to be about spending time and working with others. As most people know, people are split into two categories: introverts and extroverts. An introvert is someone who gets energy from being alone, and an extrovert is someone who gets energy from being around other people.
A common misconception is that introverts are shy and hate being around others, and this is simply not true. Oftentimes, introverts can very much enjoy being around others, but simply need time on their own to recharge and feel back to normal.
The same can be true of children, and it’s important to nurture this aspect of their identity. Some children may enjoy group activities and working as a team, and other may not, angling more towards working on their own quietly.
Just like how some children like science, others like sports, and others like art, primary school learning should provide a wide range of different activities for children. Independent study time is one factor that can benefit those that l
ike to spend time working quietly on their own. For others who are not so inclined, it’s a good opportunity for them to practice behavior and quiet time, even if it’s not most suited to them.
Solo study time gives children an opportunity to engage their brain and rely on themselves. Questions are permitted, but there is no out loud discussion; children are encouraged to think entirely on their own, even if they are not sure of the answer. This is also good practice for homework, as they are not around their teachers or classmates.
Solo study time is a good time for reading period. Reading can be difficult for children when there is a lot of noise or many distractions around them, so take the chance to have them read on their own for a while.
This is also a good time for teachers to enjoy some downtime or mark books. The quiet study time is a significant role in socialization as children can learn that quiet time and space for others is just as important in interacting as it is conversation and playtime. This can be especially helpful for children who come from large families where there is not always time for quiet.