Elizabeth recently read, and I'm just starting, the book "Einstein Never Used Flash Cards" (by K. Hirsh-Pasek and R.M. Golinkoff, with D. Eyer). The premise of the book is that children are being too rushed into academics (some kindergartens require reading skills before entry!), and this trend not only does not improve children's later academic achievement, but it is increasing anxiety and depression in children, and stealing away time to interact with parents.
I found the following quote reflects a good part of what I enjoy so much about Dorothy:
Thinking is so central to being human, and it is amazing to witness its evolution through the child's eyes, yet many parents are missing this unique opportunity because of the intense emphasis on achievement.It's true. Just watching Dorothy learn, play, and figure out stuff is truly entrancing. Sometimes she gets a cute look of intense concentration (often with the tongue slightly sticking out from her lips) as she's working with some toys. And other times she gets so ecstatic from a new skill. It's hard to describe the process; I just know I love watching it. Posted by Tom Nugent at May 24, 2005 12:41 PM
As a teacher, I agree.
I think there has been so much of a push to get kids to learn so much at so early an age, that in the end, kids more and more look at education as a drudgery and a chore, and despite the push for more and more critical thinking skills, I think kids actually learn les and less. Sadly, I think I am in the minority in this.
Posted by: Tom at May 24, 2005 08:04 PMI agree. What I love more than anything is just sitting or lying on the floor watching Dorothy (or any child) and the process of exploration and discovery in everything she does. I believe imagination is the most powerful tool of learning. That needs to be nourished and encouraged more than "flash cards" or critical thinking.
Posted by: Grandma Chris at May 25, 2005 06:26 AM