I know this one is a bit old, but I was reminded of it today by a colleague. Tully Gever gives a great 10 minute talk at TED about the value of kids doing seemingly “dangerous” things. I couldn’t agree more with the points he makes. Kids need to be taught the value of engaging authentically with the world around them. Our children need to understand how things the world works and be empowered to act in that world. Part of that empowerment comes from allowing them (by providing opportunities) to explore “seemingly” dangerous aspects of the world.
He says that kids should be able to (1) play with fire, (2) own a pocket knife, (3) throw a spear, (4) deconstruct appliances, and (5) Break the DMCA.
You’ve got to watch the video for all the details. I promise, you won’t be disappointed. The video is only 10 mins. Give a look, and leave your reactions in the comments.
Gever Tulley, founder of the Tinkering School, talks about our new wave of overprotected kids — and spells out 5 (and really, he’s got 6) dangerous things you should let your kids do. Allowing kids the freedom to explore, he says, will make them stronger and smarter and actually safer.
This talk comes from TED University 2007, a pre-conference program where TEDsters share ideas.
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