Small Talks, No. 13
June 4, 2021
Welcome to the thirteenth edition of Small Talks. Every Friday, I highlight 6 areas of weekly joys and reflections in early childhood and the whole family. Small Talks leverages my experience at the intersection of education, philanthropy and impact investing. Enjoy!
What I’m celebrating —
Alison Gopnick’s inspiring take on “the sleeper effect” in early childhood in her Wall Street Journal column.
‘Maybe “preschool” is a misnomer—the programs don’t work because they teach specific school skills. Instead, the crucial ingredients may be caring adults and a chance to play’
‘Other research suggests that care and play don’t make you better at doing any one particular thing. Instead, they make you more robust and resilient, better able to deal with the unexpected twists and turns of fate. And, ultimately, that may be the best path to success.’
Best Buy CEO comments on why it is hard to hire. His top concern: lack of child care.
This book launch by Carlos Moreno (I will admit that I had to wait well into my adult years to learn about this tragedy, and wish I had access to such a book as a child)
What I’m listening to —
This presentation by play expert Kathy Hirsh-Pasek is remarkable. She highlights the science of play, and all the evidence she is collecting across “playful learning” environments. It is an hour-long, so if you’d prefer a digest, Early Nation has you covered.
It included this interesting chart highlighting various countries evolving to lesser high-stake testing and whole child approaches.
What I’m reading —
The Intellectual Lives of Children by Susan Engel is a research-focused book on how we too often train children to behave rather than nurture their rich and active minds. Good summary post.
A Whole New Mind by Daniel Pink was published a few years ago. The author predicts that the future belongs to artists, inventors, storytellers-creative and holistic "right-brain" thinkers whose abilities mark the fault line between who gets ahead and who doesn't.
“Design. Story. Symphony. Empathy. Play. Meaning. These six senses increasingly will guide our lives and shape our world.” — Daniel Pink
What I’m watching —
Babies documentary covers 15 families around the world during the first year of the life of their babies. The documentary has 12 episodes covering love/bonding, language, what babies know, etc.
What I’m learning and exploring more deeply —
It's about time — the best ways public policy can support parents by Susan Mayer, Ariel Kalil and Michelle Michelini." 82% of Americans think that “time with parents” is “extremely” important to children’s future success."
Many Kindergartners Aren’t Showing Up as Schools Reopen in Person. How Some Large Urban Districts Are Trying to Re-engage Families: Reasons likely include health concerns for little ones before a vaccine for younger children is available, and many women out of work.
The first global study of growth mindset found academic benefits AND improved well-being among students who think intelligence is not fixed.
Interesting to see the rise in Masters’ degrees since 2010 in the U.S.- more than doubled.
Quote I am pondering —
Feedback is a gift. Which part above is your favorite? What did I miss? What do you want more or less of? Other recommendations? Please kindly let me know. Thank to all all of you who are sending me amazing suggestions.
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Have a wonderful week. Please stay safe and care for each other.
Isabelle