I’m always on the lookout for new techniques to help keep my kids engaged and focus during homeschool time. When I was given the autobiographical book A Life in Balance to review from Learning Breakthrough Program, I didn’t think I would pick up any tips, but I was wrong! While reading through the pages, I kept making notes to myself about things I could try with my own kids based on the stories and information given throughout the book.
It is basically the entire back story behind the creation and implementation of the Learning Breakthrough Program from the perspective of Frank Belgau as told by his son, Eric Belgau. It packs over 200 pages of historical, scientific, professional, and personal stories, data, and recollections. These come from a man that has been a true champion for those that might otherwise have no chance and no voice due to the ignorance of society and the lack of resources seemingly available for folks with different learning abilities.
I have children with specific learning and attention problems. While we haven’t had them diagnosed with anything, besides a few with speech issues, I still feel the need to change how I teach them. Even small changes can make an impat. Before reading the book, I was looking forward to some insight into the special thinking processes and brains of my bright, but sometimes struggling, children.
A Life in Balance
This book is really geared toward adults. I read it while we were at play dates, before bed, while in the tub, and anywhere else I could when I had a free moment. It was engaging and easy to get sucked into, so it didn’t take me long to complete it!
It does discuss how small tasks like the simple act of balancing on one foot, for example, can be indicative of learning success in a seemingly unrelated academic setting. There are many suggestions and ideas about how to strengthen and practice physical skills and tasks in order to improve cognitive function.
Before reading the book, I had never really thought about how that would correlate, but now I understand that it truly is connected. I now understand why Learning Breakthrough is in existence today, and how it can go well beyond things like medication or isolation and actually help a person to learn better. Not just learning disabled or folks with problems with ADHD, but any person. Whether you’ve got a 6 year old that is bouncing off the walls and can’t concentrate to learn to read or are an older person and you are having difficulties remembering complex tasks throughout the day, the advice in this book is great.
Try, Try Again
While he does offer some solid advice for handling tough learning situations, it truly is an amazing book of stories. Stories of the life of Frank Belgau, a great scientist. I loved hearing about the people that he met along the way on his journey and the experiences that shaped his academic quest to find real solutions for people in difficult situations. He loved solving the puzzles created by the lives of real people in his path.
I love the message in this book that failure is not final. It’s a value that I hope my own children can understand and accept. Not every attempt is going to be a winner. Mr. Belgau tried many, many different things. Like any good scientist, he didn’t allow “failure” to discourage him. If anything, each unsuccessful attempt at a solution just lit a fire under him to try even harder. His persistence clearly paid off, and he has been able to help so many people as a result!
I have often told them about Thomas Edison and his many failures, and then tell them that it just takes one right time to change the world and make it all worth it. Try, try again is more than just a saying around here. We live it every day and try not to dwell on bad stuff. Instead, we try to learn from it, keep our head held high, and move on! Who knows when the next attempt will go perfectly?
The book gives us great insight into Mr. Belgau’s trials and successes in such a unique way. I was rooting for him each time I read about him trying something new or when he was presented with a new problem or group of people to analyze.
A Personal Story Full of Encouragement
I was encouraged while reading this book! Eric Belgau has woven the words of his father, Frank, into a beautiful story. I felt like part of the family while reading through and learning all about Frank Belgau’s life. The people in his life were described so vividly that I actually kind of felt like I knew all of them, too! To know that these people, both young and old, shaped his life and his educational mission was really touching. You never know when YOU might be inspiring someone else to do great things.
I also learned a lot about how the brain works and the mind-body connection. I have found several things that tried and worked for him that I will be subtly trying with my own children. They’ll think I’m just asking them to fun obstacle course-type tasks, but I’ll really be working on their attention spans and educational abilities! That’s a win for both of us.
I recommend checking out A Life in Balance if you’re looking for a good read. I can’t wait to let my husband borrow it next!
Katie Harding says
Looks like a very interesting read, I think we can all use some help in balancing priorities and our lives in general!
Katie Harding recently posted…Carolinas Aviation Museum
Jenn says
The title alone lets me know I need to read this book! Could use a good word of encouragement. Thanks!
Jenn recently posted…$30 Family Dollar Gift Card Giveaway – Ends 6/19 #FDBeautyIs