Teach Them Young
Proverbs 22:6
“Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old, he will not depart from it.” — Proverbs 22:6. African philosophy emphasizes that education is a communal responsibility, encompassing the teaching and modeling of values, skills, and history from an early age to ensure enduring knowledge. Education should equip children with both strong cultural foundations and the ability to explore the world.
As a former math educator with 31 years of experience spanning the late 20th century to the early 21st century, I began my career during the “Back to Basics” movement, which emphasized computation, algorithms, and practice. Over time, the curriculum evolved to prioritize mathematical reasoning over mere calculation. The onset of the 21st century brought “Reform Math,” focusing on conceptual understanding rather than rote memorization of formulas. Instruction shifted from teacher-led lectures to collaborative, inquiry-based learning, encouraging students to tackle real-world problems while integrating critical thinking and technology.
Reading proficiency is crucial for mathematical literacy. Unfortunately, many American adults read below the sixth-grade level, with roughly half classified as functionally illiterate. There is a generational illiteracy crisis in America. The Nation's Educational Report Card implies most American children are not receiving the early learning opportunities, which should ideally begin at birth.
The trio bundle of ABC African Adventures, Workbook, Learning Cards, and the African Proverb Puzzle is designed to enrich the learning experience for students ranging from two years old to adults. This cross-curricular, African-rooted bundle is perfect for anyone especially those of African heritage.
Questions: Who is your child's most important teacher?
Until our next Blog...