Education is a fundamental right for every child. However, learning is not just a childhood phase; it’s a lifelong journey, and it’s never too late to gain new knowledge or reassess existing beliefs. By embracing the opportunity to learn continuously, we grow richer in our understanding of life. It states in Romans 12:2: “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is – his good, pleasing and perfect will.’
My son’s teachers provided brilliant learning opportunities and resources during lockdown. We all had a great time being creative, and it’s been a gift that keeps giving. Providing children with innovative learning opportunities produces far greater results than memorising information. So, when my youngest was given the assignment to doodle on a large piece of paper while being accompanied by the classical music ‘Flight of the Bumblebee’, he had a blast! His sheer joy was palpable. Thinking about this memory makes me very happy.
A pioneering study funded by NASA delved into the developmental effects of schooling on 1,600 children, and the findings were truly remarkable. They revealed that 98 per cent of pre-schoolers were considered creative geniuses. However, as these children grew older, the percentage of those considered creative geniuses decreased. By age eleven, only 30 per cent of the children retained the genius label; by age 14, it dropped to twelve per cent. Subsequent tests on adults revealed that less than two per cent were considered creative geniuses. What went wrong?
Creativity and learning are linked
A famous quote on reading, often attributed to Maya Angelou, says: “Any book that helps a child to form a habit of reading, to make reading one of his deep and continuing needs, is good for him.” Creativity and learning are linked; we all possess great potential, and it grows more robust, like a plant or tree, when nurtured and nourished. Life’s adventures and experiences are perhaps expanded by an appreciation for the universe’s depth and beauty. How fortunate we are, for true education is timeless, and when faith and thought ignite, life becomes prayerful. Alleluia.
Lord Almighty and
heavenly Father,
Teach us to seek truth and wisdom in our lives.
Please help us to share your peaceful message of hope,
That resonates with the universal desire for peace.
Father, guide us gently with
your loving kindness,
Towards a life filled with
light, love and learning.
May your soothing strength bring waves of serenity to
all humankind,
As we are one within you and your harmonious power.
Lord, bless teachers with a sense of humility and goodness.
Strengthen them to speak truthfully and with integrity.
May we all live by your
loving example.
O Lord, guide us to find solace in your comforting presence,
So we may continue to learn from you and follow your example in everything we do.
Amen.
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