Comments on: Teaching Children to Write Without Taking Over

By: April S

April S — Wed, 18 Aug 2010 17:56:13 +0000

Thank you so much for writing this. Our society is so focused on perfection, that I think we often forget we can’t expect it from children. Especially when creativity is involved. Children need creative outlets and that means something they can do to express themselves and not be judged. It’s too easy for a child to become not interested because we adults complicate something they love. We must remember that what is acceptable for us is not acceptable for them.
The example of the angel food cake is perfect. A part of me can’t help but think how much more memorable such a situation would be with a less-than-perfect cake with wonky decorations. Instead of just a pretty dessert, it would become a memory of the cake that Zelda made when she was little.

By: Aminhotep

Aminhotep — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 20:27:23 +0000

Kids are very observant. If we are the only audience to their story, by interupting the creative process to correct spelling and grammar, we demonstrate that form and compliance with conventions has a higher value than ideas. We may say otherwise later, but lesson makes a stronger impression when taught by example.
Aminhotep´s last blog ..Why does school suck? We teach it to suck.

By: Home School College Counselor

Home School College Counselor — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 19:56:27 +0000

It’s so easy to fall into the trap of “doing it for them.” Mistakes and imperfection are inherent to learning. For it to be otherwise would mean the subject is mastered, and not still being learned. A hard concept to grasp, for sure.
Home School College Counselor´s last blog ..Setting Educational Objectives

By: Dianne Dachyshyn

Dianne Dachyshyn — Tue, 10 Mar 2009 03:24:14 +0000

Thanks, Connie! I’m glad that my ideas make sense to you. All the best to you in your homeschooling.

By: Connie S

Connie S — Mon, 09 Mar 2009 19:36:04 +0000

This all so true. Some of us do have a tendency to want it to be ‘just right’…perfectionism sneaking in. It’s a fine line between correcting and educating. Anxious to read your next installment.