Gever Tulley: Life lessons through tinkering

Tinkering School is a unique educational environment where children are trusted with tools and materials to explore and create without a set curriculum or tests. The program emphasizes hands-on learning, allowing kids to discover how to make things and solve problems through trial and error. The experience fosters creativity, collaboration, and resilience, as children learn to embrace failure and celebrate success. Projects often start with simple sketches and evolve through building and problem-solving, with all materials available for use. The program culminates in impressive creations, such as a rollercoaster built by seven-year-olds.

What is the primary goal of Tinkering School?

• To follow a strict curriculum

• To ensure kids learn specific subjects

• To provide a safe space for kids to explore and learn through making

• To prepare kids for standardized tests

How does Tinkering School view failures?

• As something to be avoided at all costs

• As opportunities for learning and analysis

• As a reason to stop the project

• As a sign of incompetence

What role do Robin and the speaker play in the projects?

• They act as collaborators to guide projects towards completion

• They dictate every step of the project

• They ensure no mistakes are made

• They provide all the answers to the kids

What unexpected behavior emerges when kids face complex challenges?

• They switch to a different project

• They start decorating the unfinished project

• They give up on the project

• They seek help from adults

What surprising structure was built by seven-year-olds at Tinkering School?

• A wooden house

• A rollercoaster

• A treehouse

• A bridge