Written by: Michelle Macpherson, Executive Contributor
Executive Contributors at Brainz Magazine are handpicked and invited to contribute because of their knowledge and valuable insight within their area of expertise.
Children’s story books were originally published in the 18th century to provide enjoyment and pleasure for children. Over time, books became recognised as a platform for educating children and increasing their knowledge. Today, the benefits of children’s literature are vast and well established, including the stimulation of cognitive development and reasoning abilities, the advancement of literacy skills and the expansion of emotional intelligence, creativity and imagination.
More significantly, children’s literature has the capacity to promote a higher conscious awareness in young people by encouraging questioning and reflection, challenging self-imposed, limiting beliefs and imparting valuable life lessons for children to draw upon in everyday life. These ‘lessons’ have the potential to change the way children identify with and conceptualise the world around them; wherein lies the power of books!
It has been said that ‘knowledge is power’ however the accumulation of knowledge does not make one wise. So, what is wisdom? I think wisdom is best described as the application of knowledge, acquired from learning experiences, which includes reading. By learning, practically applying our knowledge, reflecting upon and adapting to our experiences, we gain wisdom.
Books don’t only tell a story or teach a lesson. They can also reflect a tale of the times. They can provide a glimpse into historical timelines and experiences, which further expands awareness. Books are the foundation and doorway to wisdom and that’s what makes them powerful!
So let’s immerse our children in literature! Let’s flood their subconscious minds with content that creates a platform for experiential learning and ultimately, the acquisition of wisdom. With greater self-awareness, balanced perception, independent, creative thinking and personal confidence, today's youth will be strong advocates for positive change and future advancement. The youth of today are the leaders of tomorrow. If they are to be wise and powerful, start reading!
Michelle Macpherson, Executive Contributor Brainz Magazine
Michelle is an agent of change and her vision is to create positive change worldwide, by expanding the conscious awareness of today’s youth. Acknowledging current demand upon health care systems, Michelle leads teachers within school communities to engage with students in ways that shift mindset and promote positive change. Embracing psychoanalytic principles, she also produces story books aimed at educating and inspiring children to move beyond self-created illusions that inhibit growth and the ability to change. A humanitarian at heart, she believes we all have a responsibility to leave the world a better place. The ‘Dragonfly’ embodies her calling...