We know and believe in our hearts that children become…
““We know and believe in our hearts that children become more engaged, motivated, and successful when they have choice over what they read, what they write, and the order in which they schedule their days. Nevertheless we have found it hard to give up being in control of their literacy choices. Then we think about our own need for choice. We realize we have much in common with our children. There are days when we come to school ready to settle in and get right down to business. Other days, working alone doesn't seem as enticing, so we collaborate with our teaching partners. Our needs tend to dictate how we organize our time and activities. If a quiet morning of preparation is interrupted by a staff meeting, our minds and bodies resist. We are motivated, engaged, and productive when we are in control of our schedules. We know the expectations of our jobs and want to be trusted to choose the order of our daily schedules and the approaches we take to meeting them. Why should our children feel any differently?””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Children thrive when they control their reading and writing choices; adults often resist relinquishing control, yet both share a need for autonomy.
In simple terms: Kids do better with choice; adults resist.
Key Takeaway
Empower learners with autonomy.
Themes
education
autonomy
choice
engagement
control
Mood
optimistic
reflective
Type
educational
When to use this quote
- classrooms
- home schooling
- curriculum design
Key Concepts
self‑directed learning
motivation
Questions to Reflect On
- How can structure coexist with choice?
- What boundaries support autonomy?
A Different Perspective
Control can cause chaos.