It seems we all take for granted that, unless a child is disabled in some way, by the time they are five years old, she or he can both walk and talk. They understand basic language and they can follow simple directions. We expect that there are variations in the capacities of children to accomplish these but also expect that they all can do it in some form. These days in addition to walking, talking, understanding, and following directions, some can read a bit and use technology. They also have some social skills and a developing code of conduct. How did they get there?  It takes hundreds or maybe thousands of attempts.  What motivates the little ones?  And how can we, as educators, capture that tenacity and use it to keep those youngsters trying and trying, working at something until they get it?   Read more...