Sally Clarkson's latest book, Awakening Wonder, deals with inspiring your children toward unlocking the beauty in learning. She shares her personal experiences as a homeschooler in a deeply vulnerable way, sharing both the triumphs and the areas where she sometimes fell short. Clarkson says she hopes that this book will be a help to all parents, but as a homeschooling mom, I will attest that it is sometimes hard to separate the two roles and this book comes off as directed more toward homeschoolers. Still there is a lot to be gleaned from this book, including:
*"What we need to do is provide them (children) with excellent food for thought as well as superior resources, giving them personal attention, asking questions, letting them ask questions, and providing lots of interactive time."
*"Capturing their (children's) heart with an imagination of why character is important is our goal. one who has grasped a vision for why character matters will be much more likely to pursue what is right than one who is just living by an arbitrary rule."
*"Stick close to your teens; tell them how much you like them and try to mean it. They will soon be entering an adult world filled with challenges, temptations, loneliness, work to master, and adult responsibility."
I have so many notes from this book; it would be impossible to include all of them. Starting homeschool this fall has been a daunting task considering all that's happening in the world. But I found Clarkson's book to be challenging and encouraging. Her writing style feels like speaking with a gentle mentor and my biggest takeaway was a quiet reminder that parenting and homeschooling is a reflection of my own heart. And it requires growth on my part in order to raise healthy, strong children. For the homeschool mom needing an encouraging read, Awakening Wonder should be on your to read list.
*Disclaimer: I received this book free from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
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