schools*
ground – a place to shine, to make mistakes and recover from them, to form bonds and shed others, to accept yourself, and, of course, be schooled academically. Caron feels that “Navigating the social milieu and interpreting the behaviour and expressions of others, helps a child form a self-image and, in turn, relationships. The concept of group membership introduces an even higher order of complexity for a child – how does he or she fit into the group norms, and what characteristics define the group? Just as groups can influence a child’s behaviour, the group’s diversity allows a child to explore new identities and a different status in the hierarchy, such as being the leader, or a friend known to be supportive, or one who can stand up for his/her values.” For Caron, the school’s goal is clear: “To help every child discover what is within, and to nurture and develop that gift or talent. So, when the child leaves the school, he or she is imbued with a sense of true worth, based on an inner value entirely irrespective of
material attributes, external achievement or social standing.” When it comes to school or home schooling, it’s not about one being right, the other wrong. It’s about making the very best choices for your particular child at a particular time. But it’s also about being armed with all the information to make an informed decision. As Caron adds with a smile, “Who says it’s easy being a parent?”
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