This week we're reading Chapter Six from Free to Learn by Peter Gray, "The Human Educative Instincts." In this chapter, Gray explains that humans are born with powerful instincts that drive learning, including curiosity, play, and sociability. He shows how these natural tendencies have been essential for survival throughout history, helping children acquire the knowledge and skills of their communities. We discuss how traditional schooling often suppresses these instincts, replacing intrinsic motivation with external rewards and punishments. Gray emphasizes that when children are free to follow their interests, these instincts guide them toward deep, meaningful learning. In our conversation, we reflect on how speech therapists can tap into curiosity, play, and social connection to support communication growth in more natural and motivating ways.

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