Feb. 22, 2006 - Teaching History - Developing Heroes (Part 2)

Let's begin with a working definition of a hero.  In our family a hero is someone of great strength.  This strength may be demonstrated physically, morally, emotionally, and/or spiritually. Heroes have high pricipals and character traits well worth exploring. Heroes do not take themselves too seriously and constantly work to avoid pride issues. Heroes also tend to recognize their "feet of clay" and make allowances for it with a sense of humor. 

Heroes are an important nuturing tool for a growing child.  Recognizing the talents and abilities of a hero during difficult experiences is important indeed.  However, exploring how the hero handles his or her own weaknesses and strengths is also quite revealing and makes the hero more endearing.  For example, there are very few instances of George Washington losing his temper, but they do exist.  Washington was terrified of his temper and he worked constantly to keep it under control. 

Hereos can teach your children how to deal with a variety of situations and circumstances.  It is imporant to remind your children that there is nothing new under the sun.

Let's look at some basic issues your scholar may be dealing with .

Bullies.
Has your child experienced difficulties with bullies?  Let him/her know that they are not the only individuals throughout time to struggle with bullies.  Look in history to see how others have dealt with this issue and if it can be applied to your child's situation or circumstance. Who in history has had to deal with bullies? What did they do?  Can your child do the same thing with slight modifications? (Ideas:  Patrick Henry, George Mason, Oliver Cromwell, Captain John Smith, Alfred the Great, etc.).

Learning Disabilities
During "Goof Off Time," sneak in books, movies, and/or audio books on Charlemagne, Thomas Edison, and others who have conquered this area while still having a so-called "learning disability".  Did they allow their "learning disabilities" to have a negative impact on them and how they approached life?  Did they help others?  If so, how?  Did they protect the weak and the helpless?  If so, how?  Did these individuals really have a learning  disability or did they learn things in a different manner than others?

Physical Challenges
Learn about  others that have had difficulties in this area like Julius Caesar having grand mal seizures or Helen Keller being blind and deaf.  What did they do to overcome their challenges?  Did they encourage and inspire others?  If so, how?

More interested in animals than history?
Look at paintings from various timeframes that have animals in them, Frequently, children want to learn more about the individuals in these portraits with the animals since they have the love of animals as a common ground.  Learn about various dog breeds, for example, and the history of that breed.  Take the time to learn about the history behind the animals your scholar enjoys.

Prefer math over history?
Learn about famous mathematicians.  When did they live?  What have they contributed to the world?  How has this helped others? 

Curious about natural disasters?
Watch videos and read eyewitness accounts, and then compare and contrast them.  How did these individuals deal with these natural disasters?  What can we learn from their experiences?

Does your child have a difficult time with a particular character trait?
History is probably the easiest way to confront less than pleasing character traits in a non-threatening manner.  Historical examples abound with individuals that have had difficulties with impulse control, focusing, etc.  Explore these individuals in such a way that your child automatically begins to identify with the character at hand without you having to connect the dots for him or her.  Remember the Golden Rule applies here also  After all, if you as the parent do NOT like to be placed on the "hot seat" nor will your child. 

If your children have not yet developed heroes within history, help your scholars to discover them.  If your children already have heroes, identify who these individuals are and why your scholars admire them.  Try to isolate the character traits that attracts your children ... chivalry, bravery, courage, standing for what is right even when it was difficult and others backed down, perseverance, determination, kindness, mercy, etc.  Next look for other individuals throughout history with those same or similar character traits in various vocations throughout time.

History becomes more alive and real when your scholars become personally involved in history developing a relationship with famous personages. Discuss the great odds these individuals went through.  Could we have handled such momentous events in the same courageous fashion?  Individuals that have left behind letters that reveal their fears and worries demonstrate a remarkable honesty to be able to identify their thoughts and feelings with clarity when most folks would chose to ignore these things.  Could this be a character trait that makes these famous personages more of a hero?

yours in His service,

Beverly Schmitt
PrestonSpeed Publications

© all rights reserved

• Post A Comment!

Comments

Apr. 2, 2006 - Untitled Comment

Posted by OreoSouza

Excellent articles here!

• Permanent Link