Examining the science in chapter 10 completes this discussion of how philosophy provides better guidance than social science. The studies covered in this chapter inform parents of which behaviors, methods, and materials “effectively” foster language development.
We must first distinguish between social scientific “effectiveness,” and aesthetic “appreciation.” The second is essential to all education, the first is peripheral. This is especially true for parents. Which do children need more–parents who are effective, or parents who are appreciative?
I can’t cite social science findings to support the central role of appreciation in the language development of children, but I can state my premise up front. Then we can see how it holds up to the science in chapter 10. Here it is:
Those who look at teaching and learning through an aesthetic lens believe children develop language as parents interact with them in appreciative ways (e.g. surprise, wonder, awe, satisfaction, encouragement, support, challenge, comfort, touch, and even praise, to name a few.)
Let’s look at chapter 10 to see what the research says. Does it offer insights that contradict or go beyond this?
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As a father of three I can fondly recall my responses to my children’s early interactions with me. My daughter’s big blue eyes forever will remain a part of my memories. Her first word was a sincere “hello” and I could hear my voice, my intonation, my warmth in her voice. It was a simple “hello” which still resounds in my ears.
My son, at age six, was reading Captain Underpants, much to the chagrin of the librarian who thought it inappropriate. But he and I understood each other and we were soul mates in so many ways. He appreciated me and I him. But it was much more, it was love fostered through me spending wonderful hours with him, reading and appreciating who he was.
As an English teacher and pseudo-linguist I am proud of my children who all have a passion for poetry and composing a meaningful letter to me which exposes their souls.
Last Friday evening my husband and I went to dinner. Oh no, I immediately thought. As a teacher, I relish the time I get to speak with my husband. I kept noticing how well the 4 or so year old and 2 or so year old were sitting. Their parents were talking to them! This is a rarity, in my opinion, in today’s society. I went over and spoke to them. I’ve seen young children with CD players, earphones and older ones texting. I see parents ignoring their children. You have to give children credit for the consistent pulls on the shirt tails of their parents. When the nagging starts, children get yelled at. It’s a conundrum. Do we start with parenting or begin “educating” at school? Whether it’s called effective or appreciative doesn’t matter. Time and attention is what children need. They will appreciate the time and it will be effective. As a teacher and coach, I can influence students, teachers and model being a “virtuous” human being to all. As another human being sharing this earth, we can interact with other parents and students. We can be encouraging and supportive, appreciative and effective.
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