Genius Hour is an educational program in which students explore a self-directed project or topic of their own choosing. While Genius Hour typically takes place in a school or classroom, there are increasingly fewer opportunities for true exploration in traditional educational settings. At ACE Academy, we create space for Genius Hour after school as a way for children to restore and recharge in a way that is meaningful to them as individuals.
Here's why Genius Hour is important for kids...
- It encourages intrinsic motivation and self-directed learning skills.
Genius Hour allows students to choose projects that genuinely interest them, which can lead to higher levels of intrinsic motivation. When students are passionate about their projects, they are more likely to be engaged and take ownership of their learning in all arenas. Furthermore, they set their own goals, plan their own projects, and manage their own time, which helps them develop important self-directed learning skills with lifelong benefits. - It fosters creativity and confidence.
Students who explore their interests and passions learn to develop creative ideas and solutions. Genius Hour encourages them to think outside the box and come up with innovative solutions to problems, and successfully completing a Genius Hour project can boost a student’s self-confidence and sense of accomplishment. It reinforces the idea that they are capable of setting and achieving their goals. - It promotes critical thinking.
Genius Hour projects often require students to conduct research, analyze information, and solve real-world problems. This promotes essential critical thinking and problem-solving skills. - It increases academic engagement.
When students have the freedom to choose what they learn about, they are more likely to be engaged and enthusiastic about their work. This can lead to a more positive and empowered attitude towards learning in general. - It supports individualized learning and celebrates diverse interests.
Every student is unique, with different interests and strengths. Genius Hour allows for individualized learning experiences, catering to each student’s preferences and abilities. Genius Hour celebrates the diversity of interests and talents among students. It recognizes that not all learning needs to be standardized and allows students to showcase their unique abilities. - It prepares kids for their future.
In the 21st century, the ability to adapt, learn independently, and pursue one’s interests is highly valuable. Genius Hour helps prepare students for a future that will require them to be lifelong learners and innovators.
Genius Hour transforms the way kids relate to their learning.
In short, Genius Hour is important for students of all ages because it promotes autonomy, creativity, critical thinking, and a love for learning. It prepares them for the challenges of the future and helps them develop valuable skills while celebrating their individuality and passions.
At ACE Academy (and all other Little Scholar programs), our mission is to motivate and continuously challenge every child to be their best; guiding, engaging, and supporting each child in academics and enrichment activities that build intellectual growth, physical development, and authentic confidence in learning. Genius Hour is a core part of how we achieve that mission in an after school setting, and we are proud to supplement each child’s school day with something so powerful.
Questions? We would love to hear from you.
Little Scholar offers programs for toddlers, preschoolers, and K-6 students. No matter where your child is on their journey, we have a program for you.
Connect with us today!
Pin it! Save the image below to your Pinterest page to come back to these ideas again and again.
Don't miss our next article!
Join our mailing list for monthly updates, fun family ideas, and more.