How the Teach-Back Method Empowers Kids
At Organización de Amigos, we believe that kids learn best when they are engaged, active, and given opportunities to take ownership of their learning. One of the most powerful ways to reinforce new skills and knowledge is through the Teach-Back Method—a strategy where students explain what they’ve learned to someone else. This method not only deepens understanding but also builds confidence, communication skills, and a sense of leadership.
What is the Teach-Back Method?
The Teach-Back Method is simple: after learning a new concept or skill, students are asked to explain it back in their own words. This could be to a peer, a coach, or even a family member. The process encourages kids to think critically about what they’ve learned, organize their thoughts, and express them clearly. In doing so, they transition from passive recipients of information to active participants in their own education.
Why It Works
Research has shown that teaching others is one of the most effective ways to reinforce learning. When individuals teach newly acquired information to others, they achieve better understanding and longer-lasting retention compared to those who only engage in passive learning. This phenomenon, often referred to as the "protégé effect," suggests that the act of teaching reinforces the teacher's own learning (Fiorella & Mayer, 2013).
When children explain something, they:
Improve Retention – Putting concepts into their own words helps solidify understanding and makes it more likely they’ll remember it. (Ha Dinh et al., 2016)
Build Confidence – Successfully teaching a skill gives kids a sense of accomplishment and self-assurance.
Develop Communication Skills – Expressing ideas clearly is an important life skill that extends beyond the classroom.
Encourage Peer Learning – Kids often learn better from their peers, making this a great way to foster collaboration and teamwork.
How We Use the Teach-Back Method
In our free after-school CrossFit and weightlifting programs, we incorporate the Teach-Back Method in various ways:
Peer Coaching – Older students or those who have mastered a movement help guide younger students, reinforcing their own skills in the process.
Check-Ins – Coaches ask students to explain proper form and safety techniques before starting a workout, ensuring they understand and can apply what they’ve learned.
Group Demonstrations – Kids are asked to demonstrate techniques to their peers, reinforcing proper mechanics and creating an engaging learning environment.
Goal Setting & Reflection – Students share their progress, what they’ve learned, and what they want to improve, fostering a mindset of growth and continuous learning.
How You Can Use This at Home
Parents and caregivers can also use the Teach-Back Method to support learning at home. Whether it’s asking your child to explain their homework, describe a book they’re reading, or demonstrate a new skill, this simple practice can make a big difference. The key is to listen, ask questions, and encourage them to think critically about their learning.
Beyond academics and fitness, the Teach-Back Method can be used in everyday life. Parents can ask their children to:
Teach a sibling or friend how to tie their shoes or ride a bike.
Explain how to follow a recipe while cooking together.
Describe how to complete a chore, such as setting the table or folding laundry.
Summarize a favorite story or movie to reinforce comprehension and storytelling skills.
Demonstrate safety rules, such as crossing the street or wearing a seatbelt.
By incorporating the Teach-Back Method into both education and daily activities, we empower kids not just to learn but to lead. At Organización de Amigos, we are committed to fostering strong, confident, and capable young leaders—one workout and one lesson at a time.
References:
Fiorella & Mayer, Learning by teaching others is extremely effective. British Psychological Society. (2013) Learning by teaching others is extremely effective | BPS
Ha Dinh et al., Teach-back: A systematic review of implementation and impacts. Patient Education and Counseling. (2016) Teach-back: A systematic review of implementation and impacts - PMC
Roscoe & Chi, Learning by teaching: developing transferable skills. ERIC. (2007) Learning by teaching: developing transferable skills
