I want to preface this by acknowledging that most teachers want the best for their students and do everything possible to make their classrooms safe and emotionally responsive environments. They are our heroes, leaders, and the ones who give us hope that one day, all children will receive the treatment they deserve. Sadly, this is not the case, especially in economically disadvantaged areas where resources are low and toxic stress is rampant.
Misbehavior in the classroom is a hot topic.
I remember when my daughter started first grade, I wondered how she would cope with this new punitive environment.
How would she handle the stoplight system or the unintentional judgment? Would it be stressful for her?
Is it back-to-school time for you and your kids? How is everyone feeling about the end of summer changes?
I stumbled upon this thought-provoking video from a TED conference where Sir Ken Robinson addresses the lack of arts and dance in our educational systems around the world. He surmises that schools are actually killing creativity and crushing the natural talents that all children are born with.
I agree that there is a clear hierarchy among school subjects, with math and science leading the charge, followed by language arts and the social sciences. Alas, somewhere at the bottom, if there is enough money or interest, there may be a music or arts program, but rarely, if ever, will you see education being taught through dance.
Why is that?
Why do schools not support the full use of our bodily talents? Why do we insist on educating our children from the neck up? Parents are battling to secure admission to top-notch preschools because, apparently, this is now crucial to securing our child's future (or at least a spot on an Ivy League admissions list).
But still, the traditional rote pedagogy served up in most schools is no substitute for a real education, and Sir Ken explains why. Hats off to TED and Ken for tackling the inadequate reality of modern education and doing it with a dollop of humor!
Talk soon,
Lori
What are your school experiences or ideas for restoring a paradigm that supports educating the whole child?
Post your comments below and let me know!
