A Plea for Unplugged Learning and Unexpected Discoveries

A Plea for Unplugged Learning

As a mom of two tweens, I find myself yearning for the return of traditional snow days. While I understand the convenience of remote learning, I believe that kids lose out on valuable experiences when they're robbed of the unexpected time to be curious and explore.

My own childhood snow days in 1980s New Jersey hold a special place in my memory. Beyond the joy of sledding and snowball fights, they were filled with unexpected lessons in history, science, and art.

One memorable snow day, my dad took us to Monmouth Battlefield State Park. While we were there to sled, we also learned about the Revolutionary War through the park's exhibits. Seeing the displays and imagining the soldiers' struggles made history come alive in a way that textbooks never could.

Another snow day taught me about the power of observation and the beauty of nature. Gazing out my kitchen window, I spotted a cardinal perched on a snow-covered pine, its red feathers a striking contrast against the white. This simple sight sparked a lifelong love of photography, a passion that I now use in my job.

While I understand the concerns of working parents who rely on schools to provide childcare during inclement weather, I believe that occasional snow days offer valuable opportunities for unplugged learning and exploration. These days allow kids to connect with nature, engage in creative play, and simply enjoy the magic of winter.

Let's not let technology rob our children of the simple joys and unexpected lessons that traditional snow days offer. Let them experience the wonder of watching the first snowflakes fall, the thrill of building a snowman, and the freedom to explore their own imaginations. Let them have their magical time to dream and discover, at least once this winter.