It is amazing how much adults can learn from children. Too often we are concentrating so intently on
what knowledge we can offer the younger generation, that we sometimes forget
the wonderful and pure lessons we can take from children.
During an ELA lesson today the students were asked to
brainstorm in groups about acceptance and diversity. How can we learn to better acknowledge the
differences of others? How can we
embrace people or cultures that may seem out of the ordinary or foreign to us?
I was fascinated by the creativity and knowledge the class
displayed, and the real life scenarios they provided to support answers. In their short lives these children have
experienced shame and embarrassment, courage and bravery, and acceptance of multiplicity. I walked around the room feeling touched and
truly proud, because despite all of their individual differences, the students
connected with one another over shared emotions and experiences.
Having been so moved by today’s lesson I came home and did
some research online. I had the
fortunate opportunity to “meet” Adora Svitak, a twelve year-old girl who claims
“the world needs ‘childish’ thinking” which starts with “grownups’ willingness
to learn from children as much as to teach.”
Take a minute to meet this outstanding young girl; she is our future…
Ms. Vince
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