Blog 2844 – 08.12.2023
Peek-a-Bug
I have heard it said that if it were possible to remove everything but insects that there are so many that the outline of the earth would still be visible. That is a lot of bugs. Bugs are fascinating and they are the subject of today’s children’s book reading.
The illustrations by Jerry Smath are amazing. The cover picture dispels the stereotype that girls are afraid of bugs. I have in my experience found that little girls and little boys are equally fearless. Fear in most cases is a learned impulse. Sadly instead of taking the time to explain that there are indeed dangerous things, people, and situations in this time space jungle, we teach our children to be “care full” (fearful) instead of “mindful.” The old adage goes “a mind is a terrible thing to waste” and not being informed but rather programmed by fear and prejudice is one of the worst wastes of a mind.
A true education requires time and attention. Cliches, sound bites, slogans, and warnings signs are just not enough. Teaching a child or anyone to quit asking “Why” is a terrible mistake and “Because I said so” is an ignorant and short-sighted answer at best. A much better and more enlightened answer is, “I don’t know, let’s find out together.” But watch out or you will learn as I have that children have far more to teach us than we have to teach them for they are far more curious, brave, patient, and persistent. Afraid of bugs? Bugs better beware for young enquiring minds always want to know more about every little thing.
Your friend and fellow traveler,
David White
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1VsNoZ8Cck76cztLVawVlne0oEhyLuU02/view?usp=drivesdk
Peek-a-Bug
theencouragingword 