The Classroom of Babel

The Impossible Dream...

Imagine you are a public school teacher on the first day of class faced with 30 children, none of whom speak English. Worse yet, imagine that there were 10 unique languages spoken by the students with no language being spoken by more than five students. How would you communicate? How would you teach?

More importantly, how would anyone learn?

You might think this illustration absurd, but think about the differences in your own children. Our two boys are built so differently, Lee and I often wondered if one or possibly both of them were actually switched at birth. Everything about how they view life, friendships, work, and academics is different. And these two share the same DNA, parents and upbringing.

Children are a puzzle!

Now ask yourself: Wouldn’t teaching 30 utterly unique souls be somewhat akin to teaching our imaginary multi-lingual classroom? In addition to the normal crowd control, behavior modification and refereeing, you would need to somehow unlock the mystery of communication and inspiration for each child.

Speaking their Language

I believe that true learning will only happen for a child if they sit at the feet of someone who “speaks their language;” someone who has a deep love and commitment to their well-being.

Who do you think is more qualified than you to provide that environment?

My boss was bemoaning the fact that his precious pet, a two-year-old Bernese Mountain Dog, has suddenly acquired a taste for leather shoes and iPhones. And by “acquired a taste,” I mean in the most literal sense of the expression.

I asked him about obedience training and he said he was in obedience training “three times a week” and was doing great! The trainer apparently spoke fluent Bernese. My boss, however… not so much. As a result, all that great education was left in the classroom when his baby came home and got a whiff of the latest luxury item.

The point is that living things are not computer code and education is more than just “pouring information in.” Being successful requires tremendous care and attention. Don’t believe anyone who tells you homeschooling is easy. They are either deluded or selling you something. Homeschooling is hard, just like parenting is hard.

But homeschooling is important - just as important as parenting. Don’t ever think you will be successful just because you are so very clever or so very educated. Ultimately, success will come because you love and understand your children enough to “speak their language.”

And that is the secret of parenting, homeschooling and dog training.

Copyright © 2010 The HomeScholar (www.TheHomeScholar.com). Text may be reprinted without permission if used in full, including the bio box (below) and this copyright, except for use in a book or other publication for rent or sale.

Lee Binz, The HomeScholar is an expert in how to craft a winning homeschool transcript . She has an award-winning Christian homeschool blog and one of the most popular homeschool newsletters available. You can find Lee online at http://www.TheHomeScholar.com.

"I just wanted you to know that while I have enjoyed your program very much, and that you have answered all of my transcript questions. I have 7 children and 5 of them still are waiting anxiously for their own graduation, so I will definitely remember you and what you have to offer, not to mention how much you have helped me already! I pray that the Lord continues to bless you and your family for your sincerity and willingness to give guidance and encouragement to others. With much gratefulness,"
~ Trish in Michigan

"Your transcripts and records were
the best organized and documented I have seen"

- Bryan Jones, Associate Director of Admissions,
Seattle Pacific University