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Regardless of your child’s academic abilities or performance in the classroom, participation in group projects helps teach them skills that will benefit them for a lifetime, both personally and professionally. Here are a few ways collaboration can enhance your child’s development and set them up for future success.

They learn to compromise. As other group members present ideas and solutions, your child may have to put his or her contribution to the side. This skill will come in handy in many areas, including sports, family decisions and business negotiations.

They learn to take on different roles. In various groups, your child will play the part of the leader, the researcher, the peacekeeper, the observer or another important role. This allows them to understanding different challenges and creates a well-rounded point of view.

They learn to brainstorm. Group work fosters creativity, especially in a peer environment. As children come up with ideas, their confidence in brainstorming increases and they learn that all ideas can be useful. An effective brainstorming session ultimately leads to cognitive growth.

They learn the power of group-think. Often, a good idea sparks a great one, one that never would have emerged without the first. Any time your child works in a group, there is potential for him or her to realize this phenomenon.

They learn how to lead. Again, the more your child is involved in group work, the more opportunity he or she will have to lead. This may bring a shy child out of his or her shell and foster confidence for children of any disposition.

They learn how to listen. Whether your child is in a leadership position or a more passive role, listening is the key to success in group work. Listening is also an excellent social habit that will help your child succeed in many different situations.