Kids + Thinking

When kids leave school they may have a burst of energy.
When educators leave school we may be exhausted.
Maybe physically, but probably mentally drained too. Why is this? Are we doing too much of the thinking, maybe thinking for our kids? 
These questions motivated me to find out what some thinkers say about thinking. Here we go...

"Time given to thought is the greatest time saver of all." - Norman Cousins

With something to think about, 

Mr. Russell

Don't EVER discipline children!

I just read an email from my friends at Love and Logic. They made a great point in their correspondence. When we are in discipline-mode we can loose our emotions in the interaction. We get upset with the child and their wrong behavior. This type of reaction doesn't usually lead to long-term behavior change and often damages our relationship with the child.

Instead, we should always be in a teaching-mode. Yes, we teach academics, but we also teach responsibility and respect. When we go into a situation with this attitude we remain calm and we get sad instead of mad. Children are more likely to respond positively to this type of response and the relationship is strengthened because you treated them with dignity and respect.

Happy teaching and cheers!

95 Pounds of Hope

Image credit: fantasticfiction.co.uk

The main character in this children’s book is Gregory Dubosc, a 13-year-old French boy. Gregory is no match for the standard school system. He has been held back twice, expelled, and labeled ADD. No schools in Gregory’s town will accept him.

The standard school system does not give Gregory much hope for his future. He has no outlet for his passion – inventing and building things. Gregory’s hope is slowly restored as his grandfather cultivates Gregory’s passion to create. His happiest moments are when he is with Grandpa Leon in his workshop.

Gregory’s dream of using his hands is finally realized when he is accepted into a prestigious vocational school outside his town.

Lessons from this story:

• Children need mentors in their lives to encourage them towards their dreams.
• All students differ. There is no cookie cutter way to do school.

What are you wondering now?