Your comment encapsulates so much of what we deal are dealing with. There is so much to be taught, beyond math, and science and reading.

i do think we all have to learn to strike a balance between intrinsic and extrinsic motivation, otherwise, our kids will miss out on opportunities they would have loved being a part of because they wouldn’t “jump through the hoops.” For me, those opportunities like Governor’s School and other summer programs were literally the escape raft from a rural, confining school system and home environment.

I struggle with teaching this to A in particular. How do you encourage one approach without quashing the other? So far, I am doing my best to look ahead–finding brochures and websites for programs and contests which look so cool to a fifth grader. Then, we are looking at the entrance requirements and setting some goals from there. For instance, a certain science program requires recommendations from the 7th grade math and science teachers. We have already talked about how important it is to be yourself, but be likable and respectful of those teachers with the recommendation in mind.

Carrot over stick? Or in my case, am I beating him with the carrot, too? It’s so hard!

I think a lot of people are tired of stuff. We were sold a bag of goods (literally and figuratively) over the last few decades, and I think a lot of us are beginning to realize it brings no more joy, plus, it’s a pain in the butt to dust!!

Let me know when you try them out — I thought it would be stressful to make them, but it was actually really relaxing and enjoyable!

And yes — we seem to think a lot alike!

We’re located in Iowa City, Iowa, and we provide student programs, teacher training, access to research, and more.