Just Wonderin'

Two things...

1. Once upon a time, in the fall of 2012 to be exact, I bought ten books all on the subject of education. I read them in quick succession and then wrote a paper on what I had learned. That's the back story.

 



I was recently thumbing through these books looking for pithy quotes (a favourite hobby of mine) and found this shoved just under the front cover of "The Disappearance of Childhood":

 This piece of scribble scrap paper wasn't the only one.

 

 

 

These notes are where the rubber hits the road - the difference between reading something and doing something. Looking around you, reading ideas and theories and then finally putting pen to paper, finger to keys and making promises to children maybe still unborn and altogether hazy in one's mind.

 

I wrote these notes just so I wouldn't forget how I learned from Dr. Montessori the importance of a beautiful and orderly home. Neil Postman and I made a pact that I would learn more traditional children's games. Charlotte Mason finally got through to me how narration works and why it's pretty wonderful. Stratford Caldecott made math come alive. And, I keep on writing, keep on remembering, keep on talking about how I'm going to read and read and read to my children. Because I just don't want to forget something that important.

 

So, now, all this to say that I want to hear what you've promised. Maybe you don't have kids and aren't totally sure you ever want to have any (that's me). Maybe you're focussing on nephews, nieces, and other kids who wander into your life (that's me, again). Or maybe you're entering in to the world of grandparenthood (please make the birthday presents awesome!)Whatever. What's one thing you've promised yourself you are going to do with these children? Be silly, be practical. Be fun or serious. But don't break that promise ever.

 

 

2. My second question needs a little preface. I think mothers are often too hard on themselves. They get stressed, uptight, and they mess up. Maybe that's you right now. Maybe you're not the fun loving aunt you always pictured you would be. Maybe your grandchildren differentiate you from their other ancestors as "the scawy one." Maybe you don't have fun baking sessions with your kids every week. Take a deep breath. Think of one thing you are glad and proud that you do regularly for or with those kids. Once again, it could be something really small. Or something really impressive sounding. Either way,comment on this post and let us celebrate with you!

 

So, you got that? Two things: 1. Tell us one thing you're going to do with future kids. 2. Tell us one thing you're doing now that you're quite proud of.

 

- Millie