What Are Children Learning When We Think They Are Not Learning?
Recently, I attended an event that left me thinking long after it had ended. At some point during the programme, a little girl, probably around four years old, walked over to where I was standing. She greeted me warmly, and as someone who genuinely enjoys being around children, I responded with a smile and a gentle pat on her back. Moments later, she drifted towards the chair where I had placed my handbag. Curious little hands began exploring the bag. Fortunately, I noticed what she was doing and gently stopped her before she could continue. She walked away and moved on to something else. Or so I thought. A few minutes later, I noticed her approach another adult. She greeted the person affectionately and, just as she had done with me, proceeded to open the adult's handbag. This time, however, the adult was not paying attention. I watched quietly. The little girl opened the bag. She reached inside. She pulled out a note. Not just any note. One of the highest denominations in the pur...