Connecting school to real life
- 13 hours ago
- 1 min read
It’s a question almost every parent hears at some point: “Why do I have to learn this stuff?” In most cases, your child is not being obstinate; they’re thinking critically, and that’s something to encourage.
Start by validating their question: it does feel unclear sometimes how school connects to real life. Then gently reframe the purpose of school. You might say, “It’s not just about the ‘stuff,’ but about what your brain is learning to do.” Skills like problem solving, clear communication, time management and perseverance are built through subjects like math, reading and science,
even when the “stuff” itself doesn’t seem immediately relevant.
It also helps to connect learning to their world. Show how math appears in budgeting or sports, how writing shapes texting and social media, and how science explains everyday things like cooking or weather.
Finally, acknowledge that there is a lot about the future we cannot control, and that’s exactly why education is so important. While we can’t prepare kids for a specific job, we can help them become adaptable, thoughtful citizens who can pivot for whatever comes next.
Ultimately, when asked this age-old question, parental response is best focused on helping kids know that school is less about preparation for life, and more about learning how we evaluate our world, problem solve, live, work and adapt.
Brought to you by: Dr. Christopher Schoberl, Head of School
Ashbrook Independent School
4045 SW Research Way Corvallis, OR 97333
541-766-8313
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