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Why kids hate school, Part 4: It's irrelevant to the real world, and they know it

Dear Parents,

Do you remember when you were young, the feeling of sitting in a classroom, watching the clock tick away as you struggled to understand why you were there? Now imagine that multiplied by the rapid changes in today's world. Kids today aren't just disengaged; they’re disheartened. They look at the textbooks filled with outdated information, at lessons that don't seem to connect with their lives, and they feel a deep, gnawing sense of irrelevance.

Your child isn't just being difficult. They’re not rebelling for the sake of rebellion. They’re keenly aware of the disconnect between what they’re being taught and what they see in the world around them. They live in a time where information is at their fingertips, where they can learn coding, graphic design, or start a business online with a few clicks. Yet, they’re stuck in a system that hasn't fundamentally changed in over a century.

Imagine being taught about the Industrial Revolution but not learning how to balance a budget. Or being forced to memorize the periodic table but never understanding how to navigate mental health challenges. Your child is smart; they see the gap. They know that learning to solve quadratic equations won’t help them understand the complexities of human relationships or how to create a sustainable future.

They crave relevance. They want their education to matter, to feel connected to the world they’re growing up in. They want to learn about climate change and how they can make a difference. They want to understand the technology that surrounds them and how to harness it for good. They want to explore their passions and see how they can turn those into a livelihood. But the current system, with its standardized tests and one-size-fits-all approach, leaves little room for that kind of meaningful learning.

This isn’t about coddling them or lowering standards. It's about recognizing that the world has changed and so must our approach to education. It’s about acknowledging that relevance isn't just a nice-to-have; it’s essential for engagement. When kids feel that their education is connected to their lives and future, they’ll be more motivated, more engaged, and ultimately, more successful.

So, what can you do? Start by listening to your child. Ask them what they’re passionate about, what they’re curious about. Support them in exploring those interests, even if they fall outside the traditional curriculum. Advocate for changes in the school system that allow for more personalized and relevant learning experiences. Seek out alternative educational options that might better align with your child’s needs and interests.

It's a heavy burden, I know. It’s heartbreaking to see your child struggle and feel so disconnected. But by understanding their frustration and working with them, rather than against them, you can help bridge that gap. You can help them find meaning and relevance in their education, and in doing so, help them build a brighter, more hopeful future.

Posted in: For Parents on June 19, 2024 @ 8:56 PM

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