I’ve often said that I used to be creative, back when I was a kid, but these days, creativity doesn’t come naturally for me. I am trying to stoke that fire again in myself. I would love to stoke that fire in Lindsey, too, and make sure I never extinguish that spark in Kathryn.
But Sir Ken Robinson, a creativity expert, says the public education system, which began to accommodate the industrial age, kills creativity in children. In my own personal experience, I’d have to agree. However, in my opinion, it’s not just the public schooling system; it is our whole way of looking at education, reasoning that the 3-R’s are so much more important than the arts. I think we homeschoolers can be just as guilty of killing creativity if we are not careful.
Charlotte Mason’s philosophy stressed the importance of educating the whole person. I think Sir Robinson would agree:
“[We must] see our creative capacities for the richness they are, and [start] seeing our children for the hope that they are. And our task is to educate their whole being…”
I encourage you to take the time to watch this little video; this gentleman is witty and entertaining, and makes some very thought-provoking points.
Wife, mama, homeschooler, dog-wrangler. Introvert who finds joy in good books, sunshine, and authentic conversation. Fitness enthusiast and personal trainer. Often seen with a steaming mug of tea in hand.
This is one of my favorite TED talks ever. You’re right – very much worth watching.
I’m visiting today, thanks to Meghan at http://tuckerstaketennessee.com promoting your blog this week.
I love the look and feel of your blog! I look forward to reading a bit and exploring all you have to offer.
I think that part of the problem in our society in general is that instead of looking for creative solutions to problems and situations, we just go out and buy new things. I try to encourage our family to take a look at what we have and find solutions from within. I also think that overscheduling our children with activity leads to a lack of creativity. Boredom is the mother of much creative. Anyway, I have seen this video before and it always sparks in me the desire to encourage creativity in all aspects of my life, as well as… Read more »
Excellent post! Give me a lot to consider.
I totally agree. I love homeschooling for that reason. I love Charlotte Mason for that reason. My 10 year old son loves to video life and make movies. If he were in school, he would have to wait until high school to do this. My wait to let him use his creativity until he is in his late teens. I actually use it as part of my curriculum.
Thanks for the video link. I must share this!!
I completely agree. Very interesting video…I enjoyed it.
Great video. Thanks for sharing it. It really makes me think. I have one child who is a born artist and another who can’t sit still and has been doing dance. I have been letting them do classes and things in the areas they enjoy but now I will focus renewed effort on making sure they have enough time for these things.