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Episode #6: The State of Flow in Learning
It is a fascinating thing to observe our children in a state of flow with their learning. Fully focused and engaged in an interest or task, a sense of time and space is lost as they dive into the deep development of an idea or skill. As adults we can get into a flow state ourselves and it’s interesting to explore the process. Join us as we discuss our observations and ponderings about flow within our families. Maybe something will resonate with you!
We Discuss:
Parents and children immersed in something together – books, games, particular interests and passions
The difference between a state of in-depth, in the moment flow, and a flow that kind of runs continuously below the surface over time
The agelessness of learning and play
The benefit of home education in offering conditions for flow
Needing time, space, freedom of choice and autonomy to come into a state of flow
What do we value in learning? Finished product? Something tangible? Evidence of learning?
How we often process what we’re learning while we’re talking about it later as it comes up naturally
Whether we are sometimes using words like “obsession” when really we’re not used to seeing kids in a state of flow, having that uninterrupted time to complete challenges, to work through things, to create.
Trusting in our children’s process
Layers of learning
Learning in a meditative, comfort state – how what kids are doing might not be fully related to what they’re learning or creating with other parts of the brain (zooming a motorcycle back and forth while writing a story in their head or contemplating things)
Looking at our own learning processes
The intention, spark, motivation or need that enables us to get on the “runway” of flow
Flow that just comes naturally from ourselves as individuals versus flow that comes from diving into something that you are supporting someone else with
Do kids sometimes need/seek out someone to engage with to get into a state of flow? A partnership? Shared flow?
The vulnerability of flow and our role as parents for creating a safe place to get into flow, of having their process respected, free of judgement
The role of movement/kinesthetic learning in flow
How slowing down is integral to fostering the conditions for deep, authentic learning
The importance of the investment of time
The possibility of collective flow – group or societal learning something together
Whether the push for productivity actually gets in the way of deep learning
How flow is beautiful but can also be intense and challenging