In the Today window of hotmail, I saw this headline: Baby’s got book: 17-month-old tot knows how to read. I didn’t believe it. But then I went and read the article and I was floored. It actually seemed true. Then I watched this video and I was convinced:

[[edited to add: video has disappeared, unfortunately]]

For the past two years, I have worked with a psychology professor who specializes in reading research and language development in early childhood. I’ve seen some amazing things (like a 4 year old who could sound out the work knowledge) and I’ve seen the other side of the spectrum (a normal six year old who still couldn’t sound out the word and). This child, Elizabeth, is the most astounding reader I’ve ever seen.

It just goes to show you that anything is possible for humans and it drives home the fact that we have ridiculously low expectations for our children’s intelligence in today’s society. Hundreds of years ago, children were speaking and reading multiple languages, versed in mathematical theory, and able to discuss art, music, philosophy, history, and politics with equal ease by the age of twelve. Today, we’re not surprised if I child struggles to pass their classes and remembers nothing once they do.

This isn’t a rant against anything, just something that brought it back to mind. And one more reason why any children I have will be homeschooled.