Little Lake Learning Community

May 30th, 2014

This is a great alternative learning community that allows kids to naturally learn through play and exploring their own passions. Kids don't need to be taught how to learn or how to have a love of learning---they are born with it (just watch a baby or toddler learn to crawl and walk and talk). What many kids DO need is to be in a learning environment that does not dampen or undermine their innate love of learning by forcing them to learn a fixed curriculum of material that may work for some, but not all. My kids (7 and 15) are passionate explorers and learners and do best given ample time to explore their interests whether it be climbing in a tree, playing computer, developing a game, creating a book or artwork. Through their own explorations they continue to develop reading and writing skills, and math and organizational skills, among others. They are also learning valuable social and communication skills as they interact with other kids and learn how to resolve conflict in a fair and democratic way. Because their own views, ideas, passions and voices are heard and allowed to be followed, they feel more invested in the community itself. They ARE the community, and this creates a sense of empowerment that breeds success and confidence in who they are as people. This is important learning that gets lost in many standard schools that focus more on curriculum and tests. I'm really happy with Little Lake and so are my kids.
Sep 29th, 2014