I discovered the child-led approach simply by paying attention to what worked. If my child wasn't interested, learning simply didn't happen. You can't force someone to want something, but a good teacher's enthusiasm can be contagious, and it is possible to inspire interest. But why go to such lengths when interest is already present? Skills in reading, writing, analysis, communication, presentation (and more), are much easier to acquire when the student's interest is at the center. Yet I was unprepared for the real results of this approach. My children found their direction much earlier than I had thought possible, seeking higher learning in their chosen areas when they were barely middle school age.
1. When interest and curiosity are present, LEARNING IS ALREADY HAPPENING!
2. When the student is genuinely interested, ...READ MORE...
|
"What we learn with pleasure, we never forget."
~ Alfred Mercier (1816-1894), American doctor and author
|
Interview on Homeschooling and Child-led Learning
If you liked this interview (aired last June on a local cable TV show), please post a comment on the youtube page!
|
"Joy in Our Town" features Laurie Block Spigel of HomeschoolNYC
|
|
Education Uncensored
Here's what people are saying about Laurie's book:
"I would like to tell the parents reading this who haven't yet read your book, Education Uncensored: 'Please Do!' I finished reading it a few weeks ago but haven't been able to put it away in my library, nor have I been willing to lend it out. For those of you haven't read it yet, it is part memoir, part education book, part homeschooling primer, all wonderful."
~Mary O'Riordan, Ed.D, educator and homeschooling parent
"You made me laugh, you made me cry, and you inspired me. I can literally hear your voice, and love your storytelling and your wisdom and just the whole package. I'm stimulated and filled with ideas for my own teaching."
~ Dr. Bonnie Shulman, professor of mathematics, Bates College
"I just wanted to tell you how much I appreciated meeting you and reading your book. It is terrific, and for me, the best part was its New York perspective. I know no other book available to homeschoolers that so overtly references an urban perspective."
~ David Albert, author of And the Skylark Sings with Me and other books
"Laurie's evolution as a teacher and life-long involvement in the world of education has given her a profound understanding of the problems that plague today's schools. This book offers an insightful look at how an increasingly standardized system is robbing our children of their individuality and passion for learning. Additionally, it provides innovative how-to curriculums for anyone involved or interested in educating children."
~ Ellen Labiner, homeschooling parent and special educator
Price: $12.95 plus shipping & handling
|
Send your comments and suggestions to Laurie@HomeschoolNYC.com.
|