Is it interesting that learning occurs all around us, but if we’re not semi-conscious  of the opportunity to teach we can miss it.

I was thinking about this when I read the following article on 43 folders: http://www.43folders.com/2008/01/28/its-not-bug-its-kung-fu

In the article Grant talks about using his kids desire to help, turning their desire to be a tool for good to keep them from getting in the way- sort of martial arts style “I’ll use your strength and energy to defeat you.”  I’ve done this with my own kids at times but not nearly enough.

But think of this– each of these opportunities is an opportunity for learning, exploration and growth. If a child (or heck, even an adult) is willing to work, and we use what they bring to multiply and enrich what we’re already doing it seems like a no-brainer.  But it is also in that moment that we need to take what ever enthusiasm that they have, and turn the opportunity into a chance to learn.

Don’t misunderstand me– the learning must be authentic, it cannot be contrived or the whole momentum and using that enthusiasm to be involved can backfire quickly.  Just imagine if you are working with a colleague who asks to get involved in a project. You know it will be more work to get the individual up and running. Nothing would kill that motivation to get involved like some coming down hard on the lecture, and forcing the learning to occur (maybe through force feeding of information?) Yes more work stinks for everyone – but what about on the next project that has similar qualities- that individual be more ready to take it on, and hopefully allowing you room to work on other necessary activities.

Maybe I’m forcing the point and over simplifying- but I like this idea as a concept. Difficult to employ for corporate learning, or maybe even outside the home- but maybe we’ll be a bit surprised.