Accidentally Homeschooling...and beyond

I read with interest the story about the youngest contestant ever in the Scripps Howard Spelling Bee. Lori Anne Madison was actually rejected by a school for gifted and talented children. They recommended homeschooling because she was too bright to be challenged at the school.

The reporters were unable to capture her attention for an interview. It makes sense, she is only six years old. The best they could get was a chance to follow her around while she waded in a stream. She was catching worms. She is only six years old. She was crafty enough to avoid answering most of their questions regarding the upcoming Bee. She is only six years old. She boasted in her ability to argue with her parents. She is only 6 years old. She is torn between playing and planning her future career. She is only six years old. She complained that the media wasn't obeying her. She is only six years old.

At first I felt this article could increase positive impressions of home schooled children. By the end of the story, I felt sad for her parents. They accepted her non-stop arguing and her mom actually thought it was funny. Will it be funny when she is 14?

I know a friend whose child wasn't really gifted. This child just was pretty good at almost everything the child attempted. Not as gifted as the six-year old speller, but bright. Because of their abilities, the child was given a pass in some areas. This child felt comfortable correcting adults and began looking down on those with less superior intelligence. They were not called out enough for their rude behaviors. They were praised too often. The child believed in their own greatness and thought too highly of oneself. Most tragic, the child thought less highly of the One who deserves all honor and praise.

If I had a few minutes with her parents, I would urge them to not let her gifts excuse her from moral training. It's not too late, she is only six years old. Homeschooling is a tremendous opportunity to cater to our child's educational needs. More importantly, we can train our children in the way they should go.

If you are like me and a little obsessed with the Spelling Bee, here's two interesting movies you may like:

Spellbound I enjoying learning about the children and how their families helped them train.
Akelah and the Bee this is a fictional account, but worth seeing.

Thanks for stopping by,




    

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