Brilliance Revealed

"How we learn has nothing to do with how brilliant we are."
                              - Henry Winkler

Virginia G., DRC's newest board member, and volunteer at DRC-East, sent me this quote on Monday with the note that I should use it in my next blog post. So - here you go...

Mr. Winkler' observation is spot on. As individuals, we all learn differently - and as the research catches up to what those of us in the neurodivergent world have understood all along - each of us is utterly brilliant. Every single one of us excels in something (if not many things).

Education - is simply providing the resources and support each child (person) needs (asks for) to explore their natural interests and ambitions. In the process, all that innate brilliance is revealed, and intrinsic motivation is nurtured. 

This brings us to the unmistakable conclusion that: School is optional simply because learning is natural. 

Weekly Creative Meditation

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DRC News

This is another quote that requires the back story. When I am in the office, doing admin work, I can hear everything going on upstairs. On Monday, I heard E complaining and fussing about the computer she was using. It kept disconnecting from the internet for no apparent reason while she was attempting to participate in a multiplayer game with her friend P. Her grumbling got louder and more strident as her frustration grew.

I went in and said quietly, "You realize you have the power to walk away, right? You don't have to be frustrated and angry. You have options." Then turned to go back to my desk. She took that in and then, after a few beats, stood up and picked up her doll.

Not ten minutes later, I heard her repeating the essence of my message to P, who was frustrated with something in the game she was playing.  

This is Free Range, Self-Directed Learning in a nutshell. I didn't demand that she stop playing - I only reminded her that she had options. And because she was able to take charge of what was making her feel icky - she was able to prompt her friend with a similar message.

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The DRC 50/50 Raffle is in full swing.  Reach out to any DRC family, Board Member, Karen or me to purchase your tickets.

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Check us Out

Deep Root Center is open for visitors through May - because we understand that you know your 4.5 - 5-year-old is ready for the next step; however, you might not be entirely sure school is the default for your family.  

We are here to answer your questions and support you and your family as you make important decisions about your child's education.  Get in touch to schedule a visit.

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And finally, a few peeks into the past week at both Centers....