One thing that amazes me about small children is the ease with which they learn new things. I think that learning can get harder as you get older. Little kids just seem to soak up knowledge like sponges, and it's fascinating to watch them. 
As a teacher, I have worked with students from first-grade through first-year college. No matter what the student's age, the most rewarding part for a teacher is watching that "light bulb" go on in a student's head. Teachers work just as hard at finding ways to explain new material as students do at understanding it--so it's exciting for both of them when the students grasp a new concept or learn a new skill.
There are a few things I'd love to learn: first of all, to play the organ that I received a few years ago. I'd be thrilled to learn to play it well. Also, I'd like to learn Latin. I wanted to study it in high school, but my mom talked me out of it. I've always had a fascination with language, though, and I do feel like I missed an opportunity there. (And I won't discourage any of my kids from taking Latin class if they have the chance). Finally, there are some technological things I'd like to master, the first being my cell phone, and the second being the iMacs they use at my kids' school. There are first-graders who know more about those computers than I do. It's really embarrassing!
COUPON TIME
With a new year approaching, many people set personal goals that involve learning something new. These coupons can help you get the materials you need to make those goals a reality.
10% off and FREE 2-day Shipping on Personal Edition products online at Rosetta Stone 
Use coupon code hd128 or hdx128.
Valid through: December 31, 2008
Cannot be combined with other coupons. Not valid on previous purchases. Valid online only.
Free shipping on any size order at Edmund Scientifics 
Valid online only. Use promotion code COUPONM.
Valid through: December 31, 2008 11:59pm ET
Up to 70% off LeapFrog.com clearance items 
Valid through: December 31, 2008
While supplies last.
10% off products at Zoobooks 
Excludes magazine subscriptions. Use coupon code ZOOBOOKS.
Valid through: December 31, 2008
Not valid on magazine subscriptions. Cannot be combined with other coupons. Not valid on previous purchases.
20% off all online orders at Hooked on Phonics 
Use promotional code SAVE20. Valid through: Ongoing
Excludes Sale items. Valid for new purchases only. Cannot be combined with other offers.
Free 2009 American Landscapes Calendar with online orders over $75 
Add $75 worth of merchandise to your cart and free calendar will automatically be added to cart. Valid through: December 31, 2008
