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I appreciate your comment.  I have heard that it is good for young children to be exposed to ideas about emotions and have been mindful of this with my daughter (4). Trying to find resources, or even words, to help illustrate emotions has been difficult for me.  I wonder if the English language has many words for emotions?

posted 3 years, 9 months ago
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The comment "good girl" presumes that the adult is making a judgement on the child.  When this idea was presented to me, I had an "a ha" moment, especially since I have perfectionist tendencies.

Since then, I've tried to change the discussion with my daughter so that the judgement comes from within her instead of from me. 

Staying away from language that transmits judgements, like calling her good, and instead using language that is specific, like, "you kept trying and you did it."

We also have a positive attitude toward errors in our house.

I must say that I still see her withdraw from some activities because things aren't going as she wants them too.  I worry about that.  She is 4, by-the-way.

posted 3 years, 9 months ago
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Absolutely.  I am a high school teacher and smart, high achieving kids will often not engage in work unless it is attached to their grade.  Really sad.

The system needs to be fundamentally changed.  If children were not herded through grade level classes and instead treated as individuals, paying close attention to what they already know and can do, grades wouldn't even be relevant.

A system of feedback that is specific, not general like "A," "B," or "C" would be a better option.

posted 3 years, 9 months ago
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Right on.  High achieving students get good grades without necessarily learning anything.

Rewards and punishments teach children to jump through hoops.  Engaging educational environments inspire them to learn.

posted 3 years, 9 months ago
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“If education is to profoundly touch the

heart and mind of a child, he must be learning

because he is curious and interested, not simply

to earn the highest grade in the class.”

- Dr. Maria Montessori

posted 3 years, 9 months ago
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