People tend to have a narrow view of learning limited strictly to academic content knowledge. But learning encompasses so much more than facts and letters and figures. There are skills and mindsets that make lifelong learners. I think these are more important than anything else. Self-direction: Carter spent hours jerry-rigging this musical instrument while I was setting up camp in Alaska. I was amazed at what he built; They had the day off last week and we had a family meeting to decide where theyy wanted to go for the day; Carter wanted to (surprise surprise) go to the aviation museum and Aila wanted to go to an aquarium because she’s become super interested in sea life after our trip to Alaska! Problem-Solving: We were camping on a beach, so we didn't have any sticks for roasting marshmallows. I told Aila to figure something out and she came back with these long reeds. Not only did we make them work; when they bent over, the kids discovered new ways of drip-roasting marshmallows and conducted experiments. Academic Content: These workbooks came with us to Alaska and also helped us through quarantine! Critical Thinking: The kids each got $40 to spend how they wanted on our trip. They had to make their own spending decisions and figure out the math for payment and change. Collaboration and Communication: They wanted to climb the boulder and Carter helped his sister up by shouting tips and making himself her step-stool. Perseverance: After hiking for 2.5 miles, we got to walk across a glacier and refill water bottles on the glacier! Unforgettable. Did you spot how my @HiglightsforChildren gear was clutch in all these experiences?! The kids loved the @HighlightsforChildren bundle, which includes a backpack, lunch tote, and pencil case. They found erm...creative ways to use each item (check my stories!). Click the link in my bio to shop the full collection! #HighlightsPartner #HighlightsDoGreatThings #HighlightsForChildren #HighlightsMagazine #MyHighlightsKid #FunWithAPurpose #ShopHighlightsStyle