how learning happens

We're moving into this period with Ruby & Shep, I can feel it, where learning gets to be an active process for all of us. No longer a byproduct of merely existing, which is what the baby through toddler years are mostly about (Goodnight Moon and swimming lessons notwithstanding), but a conscious approach that requires some tactical awareness on the part of grown-ups. An approach that can be fucked up. Scary.

So I was interested to discover (via Ze Frank) research published in Scientific American suggesting parents should focus on praising their child's hard work rather than her inate abilities. No shocker there. Kids succeed most who focus on challenges, not obstacles, and who don't fear failure or looking stupid. (The Secret to Raising Smart Kids)

I like to think we teach R & S to value self-sufficiency and process rather than talent and outcome. But there's always the question of whether you're doing enough.

Like all three-year-olds, these two are frequently overcome by seemingly insurmountable difficulties. Like all three year olds, they don't like being pushed into a task. And like all three year olds, they're completely elated when they really nail something new. It's wonderful to be along for that ride, but more, it's a huge responsibility. Suddenly I feel the need to learn as much as I can about learning. So I'm starting to read the research and watch the videos. Speaking of which, here's a phenomenal one, also via Ze Frank:



The speaker is Ken Robinson, creativity expert, who among other great anecdotes tells the story of a little girl in a drawing lesson.

Teacher: what are you drawing?

Girl: I'm drawing a picture of God.

Teacher: But nobody knows what God looks like.

Girl: They will in a minute.