At Wonder, we believe parents are the central guides, heroes and experts in each child’s learning journey. And we believe parents need to check this power carefully so the journey continues to be the child’s very own and not what we wish it to be.

For the most part in American culture, intellectual struggle in schoolchildren is seen as an indicator of weakness, while in Eastern cultures it is not only tolerated but is often used to measure emotional strength.

Giving one’s best effort is a high. When this little high happens, the motivation to feel that way again kicks in because the brain is wired to thrive on progress. We like it. It feels good. We want it again.

Young people are free to decide whether they will leave their successes up to luck, talent or hard work. It doesn’t work to have a teacher or a parent make the choice for them. That is a short-term fix for a lifetime challenge.

Why would a school that is focused on individual genius and self-paced work lace it with a punitive system of behavior control?