The Torah teaches us that the Arba Minim (4 kinds) symbolize Jews of varying levels of observance, and that we bring them together on Sukkos which represents the power of Jewish unity. On a deeper level, the characteristics allude to strengths and qualities of humans, such as intellectual capacity, emotional intelligence, sensitivity, sincerity, and honesty. It is about more than bringing people together, it is also about recognizing the unique personality, strengths, and talents that each person has, and understanding that we each have something to learn and gain from one another.
Some children are great at memorizing, and some are great with numbers. Some are athletic, and some are musical. Some are intuitive and empathetic, and some are calm and loyal. In our classrooms we work to create an environment that gives each child the space and encouragement to find their talents and strengths, and to confidently share those with others. We invite children to teach and learn from their peers, and encourage them to compliment each other during class meetings.
In the short term, turning learning into competitions may seem fun and easily motivating. However, let’s think about the deeper messages being internalized. In those situations children learn to rate themselves and their classmates based on how they do in competitions or on what “marks” they get. Do we want their self worth determined by an arbitrary rating scale, or do we want them to be recognized by their intrinsic values and gifts that they bring to the world?
We are all competing against ourselves, to be better than we were yesterday, to push ourselves harder, to learn and grow more and more. And part of our growth comes from learning from each other!
-Mushky
Some children are great at memorizing, and some are great with numbers. Some are athletic, and some are musical. Some are intuitive and empathetic, and some are calm and loyal. In our classrooms we work to create an environment that gives each child the space and encouragement to find their talents and strengths, and to confidently share those with others. We invite children to teach and learn from their peers, and encourage them to compliment each other during class meetings.
In the short term, turning learning into competitions may seem fun and easily motivating. However, let’s think about the deeper messages being internalized. In those situations children learn to rate themselves and their classmates based on how they do in competitions or on what “marks” they get. Do we want their self worth determined by an arbitrary rating scale, or do we want them to be recognized by their intrinsic values and gifts that they bring to the world?
We are all competing against ourselves, to be better than we were yesterday, to push ourselves harder, to learn and grow more and more. And part of our growth comes from learning from each other!
-Mushky
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