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Why Does School Make Me Feel Stupid?

You know that feeling when you walk into school and suddenly you feel like the smallest, dumbest person in the room? Yeah, I've been there too. It's like no matter how hard you try, you just can't seem to fit into the mold that school expects you to fit into. And let me tell you, it's not your fault. It's the system.

John Taylor Gatto, a former teacher turned advocate for educational reform, once said that the true purpose of schools is not to educate, but to indoctrinate. They're designed to produce obedient workers, not critical thinkers. No wonder we feel stifled and suffocated in that environment.

But it's not all doom and gloom. Peter Gray, a psychologist and author, reminds us that play is essential for learning. Yet, what do schools do? They strip away our freedom to play and explore, chaining us to desks and textbooks. Is it any wonder we feel like our brains are turning to mush?

So why does school make us feel stupid? Because it goes against everything that's natural to us. It stifles our curiosity, crushes our creativity, and tells us that there's only one right way to learn. But guess what? That's a lie.

Laurie A. Couture, a parenting coach and author, emphasizes the importance of supporting and encouraging our kids instead of squashing their spirit. Parents should be allies, not enforcers. They should nurture our interests and passions, not force us into a one-size-fits-all box.

But what if school isn't working for you? What if you're drowning in a sea of worksheets and lectures? It's okay to explore alternatives. Self-directed education, online school, homeschooling – there are plenty of options out there.

And remember, your feelings are valid. You're not alone in this struggle. There's nothing wrong with you. The system is broken, not you. So hang in there, keep fighting, and never stop believing in yourself.

Posted in: Blog, Questions on February 21, 2024 @ 7:21 PM

Tags: mental health

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