I was dismayed to read the letter by a Fair Haven parent lamenting some of the changes we’ve seen in our schools in recent years. In my experience every change has been an improvement on the old methods of rote learning and memorization. I applaud our teachers, administrators and social workers, who have designed and implemented a very creative, challenging and individualized curriculum, which inspires our children to love learning.
In reading workshop, children gain skills while actually reading books that interest them. In writing workshop, children learn grammar and spelling through the process of writing about what is important to them. Everyday math is a wonderful program, which actually teaches children there is more than one way to solve a problem. Yes, the playground has improved too. Children are taught the language and skills to resolve conflicts, but are not abandoned to do so alone. There is always an adult nearby to help them find the words they need to express their thoughts and yes, their feelings.
It certainly can be uncomfortable for parents when the methods used to teach their children are unfamiliar to them. I would like to invite Fair Haven parents — especially those who may be frustrated by some of the changes in education that have occurred since they were children — to join our “Starting Small Book Group.”
Every month, parents meet to discuss books, which address issues concerning the development and education of our children. A member of the administration always joins us to help connect how the ideas represented in the books are reflected in our schools. Currently, we are reading a new edition of the classic, “The Hurried Child” by David Elkind. Other recent selections include “Reading Magic” by Mem Fox and “A Mind at a Time” by Mel Levine.
I agree the world sure has changed. I was happy to spend hours with books as a child, but our children have many more options today, all of which compete with the lure of a good book. Our children are exposed to negative, commercial and violent media images we never dreamed of as children. Every generation has faced challenges in raising children.
I am fortunate to have the support of the caring professionals in the Fair Haven school system to work with as I face today’s challenges.
Mary Chiarella
Fair Haven