Hands-on-learning At It's Best

There are so many ways to learn, but the best is hands-on learning.  Don't we all enjoy learning about what interests us?  Well, yesterday we took off for a full day of hands-on learning, provided by the fascinating Scarborough Renaissance Festival in Waxahachie, Texas.

My teenager loves this time in history and the Festival provided a great, "non-offensive" day of learning to all educational venues.  We were drawn back in time from the moment we stepped out of the car.  Colorful, period-clothed characters greeted us in front of the massive drawbridge entry.

Our first educational moment was hearing a Knight explain his armor.  Each piece was discussed, passed around to experience the feel and weight, then put on the Knight.  The role of a page was explained in detail of their importance to the Knight.  We learned where the word "guns" came from for your biceps.

The jousting event brought the use of this armor into reality.  The horses were so big, the Knights had to use stools to mount them....all the children were silent and attentive as the Knights showed off their skills.  My four-year-old was captivated and my teenager became even more interested in the swords that were used and how they were made.

My four-year-old had to try capturing the ring from the dragon...he has the heart of a "Modern Day Knight".  As one entertainer explained, "I will only perform in Texas on Student Days because the youth in Texas still have manners."  What a compliment, but also a reminder to stop and teach our youth good manners.

A great learning day was had by all.  Our only mishap was my middle-aged, foggy brain, misplacing the keys to our car.  After an hour of panic, my husband was coming to rescue the damsel in distress when we located the keys...still attached to the truck of my car, left there by my distracted 14-year-old.  Between teenage forgetfulness and middle-age fog...oh my, the keys had been left with the car.  God faithfully watched our day...no one stole my car or any of our possessions, and we were able return home without many scars.

The best way to learn anything is......"hands-on".........what a wonderful "hands-on" day.  What is your best "hands-on learning"?