I've got 4 out of 5 covered...

"Dangerous Things You Must Let Your Children Do"

Someone sent me this link to view Gesser Tulley's presentation. Although he isn't a parent, alot of what he says is true. Of course I still believe in being careful!

http://www.ted.com/index.php/talks/view/id/202

If you don't want to take the time to view his presentation, I'll cut to the chase. He lists 5 (really 6) dangerous things your kids should do.


1. PLAY WITH FIRE - We've started fires with magnifying lenses and burnt stuff in our campfire. It was an eye opener seeing how fast dried out Christmas tree branches ignite and burn!

2. OWN A POCKET KNIFE- DS12 actually has 3. Has he cut himself? Yes. Only once though and it was good First Aid practice!  DS8 will be given one as soon as he asks for one.  DS8 has used kitchen knives to cut into foods.

3. THROW A SPEAR- DS12 used his pocket knife and made homemade spears. He set up targets in the yard and had a great time throwing at them.

4. DECONSTRUCT APPLIANCES- I don't think I know any homeschoolers who haven't done this. I have an old toaster, printer and Beta machine waiting for the next urge to hit.

5. BREAK THE DIGITAL MEDIA COPYRIGHT ACT- Ahh.... I plead the 5th.

6. DRIVE A CAR- This is the one we haven't tried yet. If I lived on a farm, with an old truck that wouldn't go faster than 20 miles an hour, maybe we'd try this, but since we don't, I think I'll take the boys Go-Carting as soon as Spring arrives!

The point of his presentation is too often we allow fear to limit our learning. Of course common sense and safety need to be practiced, but sometimes you need to push the envelope.

What would you add to this list?