How do the children of today learn?

This commonpassion.org is cool. Keep posting dude !
365 bet

I would imagine that part of the reason may be the Kwanzaa is not a religious observance but a cultural one.That makes a difference when it comes to acceptable topics in public education.It isn't an "alternate" celebration.Those who observe Kwanzaa probably also celebrate one of the religious holidays as well.

Peace Jennabeth!

How Wonderful!
Andre is a Gifted young man and Blessed to have such a great Mom!

I agree that the Children can be our greatest teachers-- mostly because they have yet to collect the many veils that we (adults) have gathered throughout our lifetime.
That is why it is my Mission to teach children ways of Seeing (only if they are older- usually after 10---Children See very well when they are younger) and how to maintain their innate Wisdom so they don't have to go through the years of chiseling away at the fog of uncertainty and insincerity that follows many of us adults today. No matter if they are a toddler from the 'burbs or a "hardened" 17 year old from the inner city--this is my Goal.
Let's get out there and help--who is with me!
*please excuse the enthusiasm-^_^*

Taino Ti,
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PB

Peace Mj,

Great, let me know when you need help!

When planning curiculum, I usually think of an Omnipresent theme that may prevail a few months to the whole year.
For example--
Food as an omnipresent theme:
-You can explore all the senses (smell, touch, listen, taste, sight)
-Learn colors
-Develop math skills through measuring when cooking
-Making snack and serving one another
-Small motor skill development when cutting, pouring, sifting, kneading, planting
-Sing or make up songs about food
-Make instruments using food (seeds, gourds, etc)
-Taking care of a garden, composting
-Learning and making/tasting foods from different cultures
-Write out recipes/ make a cookbook
-Making Salt dough, Wheat paste, using juices from berries to make paintings
-Learn how to share food with others

These are some of the things that I can think of off the top.
All the while, through play and doing--they are learning. Learning how to share, plan, patience (that bread takes a while when baking !), cooperation (arranging tables for lunch takes teamwork!) and caring.

Also all the Multiple Intelligences are into play, Multiple Intelligences is a theory developed by Harvard Professor, Howard Gardner, in the 80s, to explain how we learn individually-- not all of us absorb information in the same way.
Here is a "brief" run through(found in his book Intelligence Reframed: Multiple Intelligences for the 21st Century 1999, pgs 41-43):

Linguistic intelligence involves sensitivity to spoken and written language, the ability to learn languages, and the capacity to use language to accomplish certain goals. This intelligence includes the ability to effectively use language to express oneself rhetorically or poetically; and language as a means to remember information. Writers, poets, lawyers and speakers are among those that Howard Gardner sees as having high linguistic intelligence.

Logical-mathematical intelligence consists of the capacity to analyze problems logically, carry out mathematical operations, and investigate issues scientifically. In Howard Gardner's words, it entails the ability to detect patterns, reason deductively and think logically. This intelligence is most often associated with scientific and mathematical thinking.

Musical intelligence involves skill in the performance, composition, and appreciation of musical patterns. It encompasses the capacity to recognize and compose musical pitches, tones, and rhythms. According to Howard Gardner musical intelligence runs in an almost structural parallel to linguistic intelligence.

Bodily-kinesthetic intelligence entails the potential of using one's whole body or parts of the body to solve problems. It is the ability to use mental abilities to coordinate bodily movements. Howard Gardner sees mental and physical activity as related.

Spatial intelligence involves the potential to recognize and use the patterns of wide space and more confined areas. Artists, chess players, and airline pilots need to have strong spatial intelligence.

Interpersonal intelligence is concerned with the capacity to understand the intentions, motivations and desires of other people. It allows people to work effectively with others. Educators, salespeople, religious and political leaders and counsellors all need a well-developed interpersonal intelligence.

Intrapersonal intelligence entails the capacity to understand oneself, to appreciate one's feelings, fears and motivations. In Howard Gardner's view it involves having an effective working model of ourselves, and to be able to use such information to regulate our lives.

*Naturalistic intelligence able to understand the natural world (plants, animals, and scientific studies)
and interact effectively with other creatures and discern patterns of Life and natural Life force.

*later added

Here is an example assessment test:
Multiple intelligence Test

....sorry for the lengthy post...hope this helps!

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PB

Peace Everyone!

Interested in setting up a loving and cooperative environment so that children may develop their strengths and learn?
There are several ways one can do this (if you already haven't done so!)

Firstly, do you have any gifts/ strengths that you can share?
Gardening
Sewing
Baking/cooking
Ceramics
Building/fixing things
Reading/Storytelling
Musical/Singing
Meditating
Yoga
Martial Arts
Visual Arts
Theater Arts
Animal Care
Tracking
Throwing an awesome tea party
I'm sure I left out a few--feel free to add some more!

Next, Find a place(s) where you can share your skills.
Day care
Preschool
After school program
Community Center
Play groups
Gym
Your backyard
**note** some places may require for you to get clearances- a few may even offer to pay for the fees on your behalf

It is always helpful to have an idea of how many children, ages, and adaptations you may need to make (e.i. for a hard of hearing child) If you are teaching at a community center, will there be 10 children ranging from the ages 5- 15 on Tuesday and 18 fifth graders on Wednesday? How much time will you be alloted? Will the staff help out if you need or will they leave you by yourself? How's the space you're given, is it adequate for the activity(ies) you planned? What are your students' learning styles; by sight, listening, doing?

If going to a pre-existing program, present your idea to person in charge. It's helpful that you bring with you a list of supplies (if needed), possible budget, and a few lesson plans or synopsis of what you are going to do with the children.

It may seem like a lot of planning-- and depending on your offering- it may be the case, but it's best to have a clear plan. Know your limitations too and always ask for help, if you need it.

If you are clear and of good intent- the children will learn and have fun!
^_^

..If anyone is interested in developing a lesson plan or identifying learning styles.. let me know!

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PB

I see images of a globe with an adult or leader of every country standing side by side around it's perimeter.
I see what angels are seeing.

The people are standing there, but not holding hands or smiling. The task of peace and love is so great for them by what has been filled in their minds throughout their lives. They feel a fear of one another.They are strangers.

Another world globe appears! Again people are standing around the perimeter of the globe. This time with a CHILD from each country. They are happy and holding hands. They know each other. They were raised to know each other, learn about each other, love each other and they want to enjoy each other. It's how they grew up! They are smiling and some even have their heads laid upon on one anothers' shoulders.

It's a beautiful change and it can be done.

Blessings to ALL,
Kelly