julian Gerona wrote:Just teach them how to think.
I absolutely agree with this sentiment. Any adult can help foster wonder in children. And wonder paired with guidance directly correlates to a child's interest in science, asking questions, being considerate of their behavior, and radically changing their mindset to one that practices
Observe and Interact. When I worked as a School Garden Coordinator, my goal was to teach science and permaculture skills to children in the garden, but I found that I first needed to cultivate the mindset of a scientist, a gardener, and a permaculturist in the children. I needed to demonstrate and guide students on how to not jump to conclusions, rely on prejudices about insects, or tromp all over healthy soil--I had to show them how to respect each other, the land, and themselves. I am a big fan and teacher of science, but I believe a guiding mindset should be encouraged first and then the science skills they learn will hold more meaning.