This is the last book written by John Holt before his death in 1985.

The premise was that children’s love for learning is innate – it’s as natural as breathing.

He shared several strategies to guide (not teach) them so they can read, write, and learn things without being coerced.

His arguments revolve around these beliefs:

• Adults should avoid forcing children to learn things that they aren’t interested in. Learning doesn’t stick that way. It’s just a massive waste.
• Adults should stop limiting their abilities to learn just because they are children. Giving them unsolicited help is dangerous. We gotta trust them more.
• Children should be treated with respect as human beings. Correcting them directly is just rude. You’ll be surprised to see how they can correct themselves on their own.
• They are good observers. They use that skill to correct themselves. Either trust that ability or correct them subtly.
• They love the world, that’s why they love to learn about it. Make as much of the world accessible to them.
• Learning is not always the product of teaching, but it’s always the product of the activities provided for the learners.

John Holt’s deep love and fascination for children is contagious!

It’s the main root of his call for transformation of educational system.

I was shocked to know that the revolution for educational reform started that early.

I wonder what happened.

I wonder why so many people have been holding on to some beliefs that are no longer relevant in the present time.

I wonder what I can do more to join the educational revolution. These thoughts have been brewing inside me for the longest time. The book made me feel validated.

My deepest gratitude, John Holt. God bless your soul.