The Importance of Letting Kids Struggle in the Learning Process

In her blog “How to Be Brave,” Jenny Anderson, along with Rebecca Winthrop, delves into the topic of helping disengaged teenagers learn better, feel better, and live better in their new book titled The Disengaged Teen. In a teaser for their book published in the Wall Street Journal, Anderson wrote an insightful piece titled “Don’t Try to Rescue Your Kid From the ‘Learning Pit’,” where she highlights the importance of letting kids struggle in the learning process.

Key Quotations from the Article

• The high ground, before the ditch, is the excitement and spark of a new idea. Immediately after comes the false belief that you understand it. Then comes the descent into realizing you don’t really understand it: falling into the pit. Over time, very gradually, you figure it out; you climb out of the pit.
• Letting kids struggle is not the norm in the U.S. In 1999, the Department of Education released a detailed study comparing how teachers teach eighth-grade math in different countries…
• But soon after my unnecessarily panicked email, my daughter’s mood started to improve. Her scores started ticking up…
• … a kid who struggles—and sometimes fails—will end up better prepared for life’s challenges than one who breezes through their work without breaking a sweat…

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why is it important to let kids struggle in the learning process?

Allowing kids to struggle helps them develop problem-solving skills, resilience, and independence. It prepares them to face life’s challenges with confidence.

How can parents support their children while they struggle academically?

Parents can encourage their children to persevere, provide emotional support, and teach them that setbacks and failures are essential steps in the learning journey.

Conclusion

Embracing the idea of letting kids struggle in the learning process is crucial for their growth and development. It teaches them valuable life skills and prepares them for the challenges they will face in the future. As parents and educators, it is essential to foster an environment where struggles are seen as opportunities for growth rather than hindrances to success.