SHAREThe foundation of our site is the willingness of many people proficient in their field to share knowledge, techniques, and enthusiasm with children just starting out.

UNDERLYING PRINCIPLESWe think there are some common threads that connect proficiency in most disciplines. They are early discovery, excellent mentoring, and deliberate practice. The ways and methods of weaving those threads are as varied as the people involved. Much has been written in recent years about how we gain our expertise as we move through our lives. We think the most comprehensive work to date (900 pages) is "The Cambridge Handbook of Expertise and Performance." Co-editor K. Anders Ericsson was the first to define the process of programmed or designed repetition as “deliberate practice”. For more about Ericsson see Fast Company's "Final Word."

BEST PRACTICESWe apply our “best practices” to preparing the projects we present but realize their lasting value rests in the hands of the teacher/mentor who facilitates the practice of our work. Do you have a story about starting a young child in a new activity? Share it here.

SHOW AND TELLWe encourage you to share any start-up projects you are excited about. If we share your enthusiasm we will publish them on this page and get feedback from our readers. Submit here.

FUTURE SUBJECTSCurrently, we are focusing on using our hands with wood and in the garden. We are already looking at physical activities, food selection and preparation, written communication, personal responsibility, earning and saving, as future subjects. If you have other favorites, send them along. Suggest here.