Rote learning has been looked down upon in educational circles for some time now. The emphasis is on understanding, but I’ve always believed that some things you just have to memorize – like the multiplication tables. I cringe when I see some of my family members, who shall remain nameless, counting on their fingers. Spending time with my grandkids has only made me more convinced of the value of rote learning, because that’s how they learn. Not only does Molly have her favorite books, she has her favorite page within the books. I’m not complaining, but after reading “Teddy Bear, Teddy Bear touch your nose” at least 15 times, I’m ready for something different. Not Molly. She grabs the book again, opens it to the Teddy Bear, and starts pointing. We read the same page over and over and over again. Then we pick up Giggly Wiggly Worms and count the worms and name their colors over and over and over again. The best part is that she doesn’t know she’s learning. She’s just having fun. And so am I. This is the best teaching job in the world. Rote Learning. Give it a try.