Now in Vietnam
So exciting to be in Vietnam for the first time… so many new things… so much good food, and wonderfully the hotel where the “Art of Listening”conference has been held has sponsored not only the venue but also my entire stay here - because the owner believes in the importance of education - so a shout out to the Amanaki Hotel for prioritising young children, play and education.
Thanks for sharing your expriences. My thoughts about school in the US has me wondering how changes can be made if there is no motivation from policy makers. I also feel that there is so much pressure on families to survive and everyone is working so much and trying to compete with one another. They seem apathetic to what is being taught in public schools and how. Very little people have leftover time or energy. Perhaps meant by design? I am fed up about hearing how test scores are down so let's do more of what is not working. When will play be respected and harnessed alongside the nature of humans in learning? We all deserve to be part of a well adjusted team. More joy is better for everyone.
I read a comment from a kindergarten teacher somewhere on social media in which a discussion on how frustrating it is when kids are not ready for kindergarten. This teacher said that the kids who already know the alphabet and numbers and how to cut and hold a pencil and read are bored having to wait for the children who are behind to learn these things. Oh boy. That is sad. These kids should have been playing in preschool.
Just some thoughts spurred by your post.
I hope you are well and you enjoy your adventures.