The Future of Children

Book excerpt: Phillip Moore's book The Future of Children describes the work of an innovative independent school in Michigan and the principles of a love-based education. This book grew out of over four decades of direct experience with children who have been educated in a school that was based on love. These children have grown up to be very different kinds of people. Their direct connection to the natural world has influenced them to feel a deep connection with life. Their sensory rich education has given them a life long love for creativity, for doing and making things of beauty and function. Their abilities to collaborate with others has given them the direct experience of accomplishing projects that live beyond the possibility of an individual. Their ability to do their own thinking and to be in love with life long learning has given them the confidence to live in a world of shifting complexity and deep uncertainty. The lessons and the stories of this school provide us with insights and the creative inspiration that will fuel new ways of teaching and new ways of learning. This book is essential for parents and educators who are dedicated to shifting from the dominant industrial (failing) educational paradigm to a new paradigm that is based on love, trust, and deep inter-connection.