"Do Schools Today Kill Creativity?"

That's the title of this TEDTalk by Ken RObinson. I'd go further and say that most institutions kill creativity - in fact it is their goal to kill creativity. But that is a topic for another day.

I wrote this reply in response to the video and Manisha really liked it, so here goes:

"As I see it he is pushing what unschoolers have alwayspushed - pay attention to what your kids are good at,what sparks their imagination, what piques their interests. Then make resources of all possible kindsavailable to them - people, friends, classes,materials, videos, computer games, you name it. Andthen get out of the way and watch the magic happen!

I would like to emphasize that creativity does nothappen under duress. It can only blossom with freedomand honor and trust and yes, play.

PS: As I write this, Supriya and Aseem have set up agame called Bowling Alley (which Supriya has designed)in the foyer and are having a great time playing.Supriya has made a grid on paper and is keepingscores. Aseem is winning for now. Life is beautiful. This is what Ken is talking about..."