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The Wonder of Words

Language and communication are foundational to learning, and words are the building blocks for constructing knowledge. Young children love the sounds of new, tongue-tingling, or BIG words. Sometimes, the BIGGER, the better! They also like to try out intriguing words—especially ones that make them giggle.

For example, types of dinosaurs (daemonosaurus, iguanacollossus, or skorpiovenator) or plants (elephant-foot yam, venus flytrap, sneezewort yarrow) can be especially fun to say. And, even more fun to learn about!

Parents can help children extend their vocabulary, share ideas, and enjoy learning activities that spring from greater awareness and understanding of words that are interesting, hefty, or unusual. There’s nothing wrong with saying “laugh” but saying “gigantic belly-laugh” is SO much more expressive! Let’s explore the richness of words, and how to encourage children’s appreciation and use of them.

SIMPLICITY vs COMPLEXITY

“Simplicity is the glory of expression.”

~ Walt Whitman (poet)

Simplicity makes good sense. Why complicate matters? Isn’t it better to refer to something clearly and explicitly, making it easy to comprehend rather than complicated?

Yes. And no.

Yes, because we want children to be able to grasp concepts and understand the basic meanings of words we use to communicate. No, because simplification can be belittling, boring, and short-circuit motivation. The ideal is to find that sweet spot whereby children comprehend something and experience the urge to extend it to the next level. This is often referred to as the Zone of Proximal Development. The ZPD is that space wherein the learning experience is challenging enough to be interesting and familiar enough to be mastered with some help.

Dr. Joanne Foster

Dr. Joanne Foster, an acclaimed author and educator, has dedicated over 35 years to gifted education and child development. With expertise in psychology and special education, her work empowers parents and educators, fostering creativity and high-level learning in children and teens. Dr. Foster has written countless articles, and several books—the most recent being Ignite Your Ideas: Creativity for Kids.

Insightful Reads For You

Science Fairs: Yes? No? Maybe?

Science Fairs: Yes? No? Maybe?

This piece focuses on the topic of school science fairs. There are questions raised about the nature and viability of such fairs, and then the author shares material conveyed in an interview in the Journal for the Education of Gifted Young Scientists.

Being Consciously Upbeat!

Being Consciously Upbeat!

We live in a world wherein life can be challenging and unpredictable, and change is inevitable. The focus of this article is on the importance of striving to be consciously upbeat – even when facing difficulties.

Kids and Nonfiction Books

Kids and Nonfiction Books

“Nonfiction books provide information, strategies for doing and learning, and new perspectives.” Discover how to fortify kids’ reading selections across genres, and encourage their interest in nonfiction books. They’re gateways to pleasure and infinite possibilities!