One of the most effective ways for children to learn is by doing, by doing something they enjoy and are passionate about. Some subjects like math and writing are easy to teach in a hands on fashion. For example all of introductory math can be taught through fishing and texting or blogging easily develops writing skills. However, how do you get a student interested in learning a foreign language? Show travelogues?
Professor Ann Abbot at the University of Illinois teaches Spanish to children through lessons in entrepreneurship. "Video Lessons about Entrepreneurship that Spanish Students Will Love". Native speakers who are reportedly entrepreneurs present a short explanation of a key point in entrepreneurship, which is followed by a lesson the students complete. This may not be at the standard of HBS but it definitely would engage a child's interest. The videos are here on Medium.
Take aways:
- With a little imagination any subject can be taught to children in a hands on way
- When you cannot figure out how to engage children, use entrepreneurship (or fishing)
Thanks to @Mariana_lud for the reference to this article. Mariana is a voracious reader and social media enthusiast on children, learning and home schooling. She is also emerging as a leading bi-lingual health and nutrition coach.