Independent ideas out of actual experience
I am beginning to suspect all elaborate and special systems of education. They seem to me to be built upon the supposition that every child is a kind of idiot who must be taught to think. Whereas, if the child is left to himself, he will think more and better, if less showily. Let him go and come freely, let him touch real things and combine his impressions for himself, instead of sitting indoors at a little round table, while a sweet-voiced teacher suggests that he build a stone wall with his wooden blocks, or make a rainbow out of strips of coloured paper, or plant straw trees in bead flower-pots. Such teaching fills the mind with artificial associations that must be got rid of, before the child can develop independent ideas out of actual experience. — Anne Sullivan
Hat tip: Life Dreamed.
Thank you to everyone who participated in the open thread this weekend! It was great, and we’ll definitely do it again!
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“I’ve noticed big changes in my child’s play since I began doing the things suggested, and I am utilizing it for my own projects!”
“In addition to teaching how to do project-based homeschooling it’s like a manual on how to live.”
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“Although the title says ‘Project-Based Homeschooling,’ it is really something that any parent could incorporate into their lives, homeschooling or regular schooling.”
“Brilliantly written book, easy to read, easy to follow, well organised, stuffed full of easy to follow and idea-provoking tips for enjoying learning and supporting children of all ages. ... As a librarian and advocate of life long learning, I can’t tell you what a joy this book is to read — affirming, inspiring and practical.”
“Her writing style is really accessible, witty and flows beautifully; she paints a picture of a world you can’t help but want to be a part of. This isn’t a vague philosophy, this is a how-to book that empowers parents to empower their children.”
“For those new to homeschooling and even those such as myself, who have been homeschooling for years, this book will be the one you have on hand at all times. Easy to read, intelligent, heartfelt, inspiring and honest!”
“Wonderful resource! This will help every parent to keep their children’s love of learning alive. Project Based Homeschooling will be a favourite for years to come in our home.”
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“[H]er new book … synthesizes so much wisdom about homeschooling from a project-based perspective.”
“[O]verflowing with ideas for any parent who’d like to encourage more self-directed learning in their kids.”
“Do yourself a favor and read this book with a highlighter and pencil in hand.”
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“Anyone who considers themselves the ultimate guardian of their children’s education … will find ideas to think about and act upon.”
“[A] rare book that both inspired me to make changes in the way I homeschool and gave me the practical means to make them.”
“[T]his isn't just a homeschooling book. It is a guide to parenting.”
“What Pickert has done with her book is explain in an easy-to-read and practical manner what parents can do at home to ensure that children will take charge of their own education and gain essential skills. If that sounds far-fetched, I suggest you read the book.”
“There are only a handful of books that I can honestly say have changed my life. This … is one of those books.”
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7 comments
I just wanted to pop by and say that I've really been enjoying reading your thoughts on children, education, and (really) learning. The open thread was great, too. I'll save up my questions for the next one :)
thank you, amanda! i really appreciate that. :^)
The open thread was great-- I popped in last night and read through everything. Maybe you could give us a heads up for the next one a day or two in advance-- I'll be there for sure:)
jessica, i am hoping to schedule open threads for most saturdays/weekends. (i won’t turn off comments until monday morning.) the most reliable way to know when we’re hosting an open thread is, of course, to subscribe to our rss feed. ;^)
and thank you! i thought it was great, too!
That is one great quote, Lori!
I'm feeling stupid here, but was this A Sullivan as in Helen Keller?! I love this quote! AS with all the other words of wisdom you use here. Thanks!
mary, thank you! i thought so, too!
greenchickadee (btw, that name always makes me smile), yes!! annie sullivan! did you read her autobiography? i read it when i was a child -- a bit heavy for a 9yo! but i love her, too, and i think i reread that book once a year for at least a decade!
i love quotes; they always seem to jump start good lines of thinking on a cold morning.
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