Much more than the 3 R’s

While we were in Brazil this year I spent some time observing what goes on in our school.  The teachers teach much more than just reading, writing and arithmetic.  They also teach obedience and good behavior, both of which are very important in both the classroom and on the playground.

Children as young as three years are taught table manners.  They learn to eat with a knife and fork and are reminded to use their dinner napkin when they need to.  Each teacher sits at the table with her class and keeps order.

After the meal they all file back to the school sinks and brush their teeth and wash their hands. The dentists at the clinic give oral health classes so they are right there to make sure the teachers follow up with their instructions.

It’s amazing how quickly children so young learn the rules. They will definitelybe better prepared for the future!