Learn to learn

The more important things in life cannot be learned in theory. Morals, responsibility, social justice, and democracy must be learned through experience. The Ablany Free School provides the child with an empty space whereby they can make their own experiences and sense of their own understanding. Rather than learning specific skills and accumulating factual knowledge the child learns to learn. Learning is considered as natural product of human activity and the school makes no attempts to limit, control or direct the child’s play instinct. Here, play is essential for learning, particularly in fostering creativity. It’s an organic learning environment in which the child’s emotional well-being counts more than academic achievement. Through expressing themselves honestly the children are able to develop as a person.

By solving their own problems in the council meetings without the interference of an authority, the children develop a sense of personal responsibility and acquire important problem-solving skills. Because many of today’s leaders lack creativity and fundamental problem-solving skills America with its material, intellectual, and spiritual richness seems utterly helpless regarding issues about environment, economic, equity, corruption of political life, society, and peace. Many people who lack problem-solving skills rely on an authority (teacher, police, court) to solve their problems for them. In cases where an authority is not available, for example in political conflicts between countries, the situation tends to escalate. What the children learn at Ablany Free School is the foundation of becoming a capable leader in the future.