Fostering a Love💕of Learning In Our Modern World
Kids hating learning is common but it’s not normal.
Kids come into this world fascinated by it. Who wouldn’t be - I mean have you seen the world? But slowly, for so many, their spark go out.
This week I spoke to an old friend about her 13 year old son. The last time I saw him he was 8 and filled with enthusiasm for everything. He loved computers, coding, building things, and taking apart everything mechanical in her house. Now, she says she’ll find him just staring at the wall. He’s miserable and she doesn’t know what to do.
It’s common but it’s not normal.
We don’t want to admit that part of the problem is our modern conception of school. Kids spend 40 hours a week at school, more if they are doing after-school programs. Standardized testing, asking permission to use the bathroom, rigid curriculum stifle their joy and their joy for learning.
If you’re reading this, I know you want something different for your kids’ education. You don’t want stiffing and uninteresting. You want to see your kids joyfully learning, engaged in exploration of the world.
There are many ways to get there and that is what we want most here at Ahimsa is JOYFUL LEARNING.
Today, let’s look to the past for inspiration. Charlotte Mason's educational philosophy stands as a beacon of hope. Her timeless ideas offer a refreshing perspective that transforms education into a vibrant, enriching experience balancing intellectual rigor with the wonders of the natural world, the arts, and the beauty of human expression.
9 Pieces of Wisdom from Charlotte Mason
Respect the child's person-hood as an individual
Understanding and valuing each child as a unique individual fosters self-esteem and personal growth. This respect helps children to develop their inherent talents and abilities. Practical Tip: Listen attentively to your child’s interests and provide opportunities that align with their passions, whether it's through books, extracurricular activities, or family projects.
Encourage Outdoor Play: Balance physical and mental pursuits
Outdoor play enhances physical health, reduces stress, and stimulates creativity and problem-solving skills. Practical Tip: Designate daily outdoor time, where children can freely explore, play, and engage with nature, such as hiking, gardening, or simply play in the park.
Encourage practical life skills like knitting or woodworking
Handicrafts teach patience, fine motor skills, the satisfaction of creating something tangible, and foster a sense of accomplishment. Practical Tip: Introduce simple projects like knitting, sewing, or woodworking, and gradually increase complexity as the child’s skills improve. Use online tutorials or local classes to get started.
Art & Music Appreciation: Help children form a connection with the beauty of human expression
Exposure to art and music enriches children’s lives by developing their aesthetic sense and emotional intelligence. It allows them to express themselves and appreciate the creative efforts of others. Practical Tip: Visit art museums, attend concerts, and integrate art and music into daily routines. Encourage children to create their own art and music, providing the necessary materials and instruments.
Short Lessons: Mason believed in quality over quantity. Respect the child's natural attention span
Short, focused lessons align with children’s natural attention spans, making learning more effective and enjoyable. This approach prevents burnout and fosters a love of learning. Practical Tip: Keep lessons to 15-20 minutes for younger children and gradually extend for older ones, ensuring they remain engaged and interested.
Prioritize Firsthand Experiences instead of textbooks: Have children read original books & do science by experimentation
Firsthand experiences provide a deeper understanding and lasting knowledge compared to secondhand information. They promote critical thinking and curiosity. Practical Tip: Choose original texts over simplified versions and conduct simple science experiments at home, encouraging children to observe and draw conclusions from their experiences.
Narration: Have children retell a story in their own words from very early ages. This helps with memory, grammar, & writing later
Narration enhances comprehension, retention, and verbal skills. It encourages active listening and thoughtful engagement with material. Practical Tip: After reading a story, ask your child to narrate it back to you in their own words. Start with short passages and gradually increase the length as they become more comfortable.
Spend Time in Nature: Exploring the beauty of our Earth
Regular interaction with nature fosters a sense of wonder and respect for the environment. It supports physical health, mental well-being, and scientific curiosity. Practical Tip: Plan regular nature walks, encourage exploration of local wildlife, and involve children in gardening or nature-based projects.
Have a "Feast" for Your Child: Ensure that their world is filled with the beauty of books, art, nature, music, history, science, and more
A rich and varied intellectual diet stimulates the mind and nurtures a lifelong love of learning. This diverse exposure helps children discover their interests and develop a broad knowledge base. Practical Tip: Curate a diverse selection of high-quality books, art supplies, musical instruments, and educational resources in your home. Make these materials easily accessible and integrate them into everyday activities.
Charlotte Mason believed in a "living" education; one where children loved to learn & engaged with living ideas & stories.
Hers is a beautiful vision & one that you can integrate into your home.
Consider joining 𝓒𝖑𝖆𝖗𝖎𝖋𝖎𝓔𝒅 and experience the magic of joyful learning for yourself. Paid members receive Exclusive Education Strategies, Thriving Learner Workshops, Masterpiece Lesson Plans, 24/7 Community & Science of Kids. Can’t wait to meet you!♥️
