5 TED Talks That Will Make You and Your Kids Closer

If you and your children haven’t watched a TED Talk yet, you may be missing out! According to the TED.com website, “TED is a nonprofit devoted to spreading ideas, usually in the form of short, powerful talks (18 minutes or less).” These Internet videos feature thought-provoking talks on topics that include technology, education, art, design, health, and global issues. With more than 1,900 videos, however, it can be overwhelming to find what is of interest to you. So, here are five talks that may just bring you and your kids closer.

1. How schools kill creativity by Ken Robinson

With more than 32 million views, this popular TED Talk illustrates an education system that nurtures creativity.

What you’ll learn: We need to radically rethink our view of intelligence.

What you’ll learn for your student: How dynamic education is and the multiple types of intelligence.

2. Hackschooling by Logan LaPlante

Based off of Sir Ken Robinson’s TED Talk above, Logan talks about having a hacker mindset in which we challenge and change the school system in place today to make it work differently.

What you’ll learn: Mixing the importance of education with learning how to be happy and healthy.

What you’ll learn for your student: How education is helping them achieve the ultimate goal of happiness.

3. Every kid needs a champion by Rita Pierson

This TED Talk reiterates the fact that every student has the right to say: “I am somebody. I was somebody when I came. I’ll be a better somebody when I leave. I am powerful, and I am strong. I deserve the education that I get here. I have things to do, people to impress, and places to go.”

What you’ll learn: The importance of teachers connecting with their students on a real, human, and personal level.

What you’ll learn for your student: Why certain types of teachers are likely to resonate with your child.

4. Agile programming—for your family by Bruce Feiler

Rather than executives (parents) issuing grand proclamations, the team (parents, kids) manages itself. With constant feedback, daily update sessions, and weekly reviews, you’re constantly changing.

What you’ll learn: Increase communication, decrease stress, and make everyone happier.

What you’ll learn for your student: An alternative insight of seeing the family as a team

5. Bring on the learning revolution! by Ken Robinson

As a follow-up to his 2006 TED Talk above, Sir Ken Robinson makes a case for a shift from standardized schools to personalized learning, so that kids’ natural talents can flourish.

What you’ll learn: Speak as your authentic self and cultivate creativity.

What you’ll learn for your student: Realize that innovation is not easy, and challenge what we take for granted.

 

Have you seen other TED Talks that have brought you and yours kids closer? Share in the comments below, or tweet us @LearningLiftoff.

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