Teachable Moments

They are everywhere. My assumption that every parent saw them has been incorrect. Some are valid reasons…some, not so valid. But in my experience I have come to realize that not everyone knows how to “teach” and capture these moments.

My husband used to give me such a hard time when I would teach something to our Bible class without preparation. Oh, I would prepare for our selected topic each week, but inevitably some other topic would come up and we would head another direction! He did not feel like he could do it….he said because I was a “teacher” it was easier.  But he always did great, he just didn’t have the confidence.

I am not sure that I believe that it was just because I was a “teacher” but based on some recent conversations, I get that for some, those “teachable moments” are hard to recognize. That being said, I thought I would use some examples.

Bear in mind that these moments can be instructional, moral, emotional, etc. This is not an exhaustive list by any means.
Let’s head to the apple orchard. These will be aimed for younger primary and elementary aged children:

1.) Have your child set his own alarm clock. Teachable moment-Responsibility, Number recognition, Telling Time
2.) Help with breakfast preparation and clean up. Teachable moment-Responsibility, Measurement, Counting, Sharing, Work Ethic
3.) Choose his own outfit from two you have chosen for him the night before. Teachable moment-Responsibility, Individuality, Time Management, Color Coordination
4.) Arrive at orchard and pick up necessary gear with proper etiquette. Teachable moment- Responsibility, Respect, Individuality
5.) Collect apples in bags, help the younger children or share tools. Teachable moment- Responsibility, Sharing, Work Ethic, Counting
6.) Dividing apples at home. Teachable moment-Science (types of apples), Math- division of apples by size and color, ratios( 8 gala out of 32 total), Graphing
7.) Investigating apple’s history. Teachable moment-Reading, Research
8.) Reading about Johnny Appleseed. Teachable moment-Reading, Art, History, Library Skills
9.) Choosing favorite recipes. Teachable moment-Reading, Individuality, Math Skils

I think you get the general idea. I notice that “responsibility” is mentioned often in these “teachable moments”. Why? Because this is obviously of incredible importance. No teaching will take place if your child is not responsible.

“Each one should test their own actions. Then they can take pride in themselves alone, without comparing themselves to someone else, for each one should carry their own load.” Galatians 6:4-5

We owe our children the best education possible, and yes…that always begins at home!

Enjoy those “moments”!

~Be Blessed

IN CHRIST ALONE

TSA

*pixabay, NIV Bible