In this rapidly changing era, we are like small boats sailing on an endless sea, with the lighthouse of knowledge guiding our direction, while the waves of practice provide the powerful force that propels us forward. I often wonder how to help children understand that the dense words, formulas, and theories in books are not just tools for passing exams, but can illuminate their inner world and give them wings to soar in the real world.

Imagine that knowledge is like brilliant stars hanging in the night sky, beautiful yet distant. Every child is a little explorer gazing at the stars, their eyes sparkling with curiosity and desire for the unknown world. However, merely standing still and gazing cannot truly touch the warmth of those stars. The true value of knowledge lies in how we can pluck it from the distant horizon and embed it in our life journey, becoming the light that illuminates our path ahead.

1. The seeds of knowledge need fertile soil, as well as sunlight and dew

Let’s start with a metaphor: when children first encounter knowledge, it is like seeds sown in spring. When you teach them mathematical formulas, historical stories, and scientific principles, these are carefully selected seeds. But just scattering them is not enough; they need fertile soil—that is, a good environment from family and society, filled with love, encouragement, and support, so that these little seeds can take root in peace.

Next, the sunlight and dew come. The sunlight represents the children's curiosity, their endless desire to explore the outside world; the dew is the guidance and inspiration we provide as parents and teachers. We must teach them to ask questions, to seek answers, just like a gardener watering flowers, doing it just right—not overly indulgent, yet not letting them dry out.

But having just these is not enough; the most crucial part is to let these seeds break through the soil, see the world, and experience the wind and rain. This is the key point I want to make today: knowledge must be applied to come alive.

2. Books are maps, but practice is the journey

Let’s use another metaphor: the knowledge in books is like exquisite maps, marking mountains, rivers, lakes, and cities. Children sit at their desks, flipping through pages, as if they can traverse time and space, traveling far and wide. But remember, no matter how detailed the map is, it is merely a guide; the real scenery must be measured by our feet and witnessed by our eyes.

Imagine if children only buried themselves in their studies but never stepped outside to see if the rivers marked on the map truly flow gently, or if the mountains are indeed majestic and grand—how narrow their world would be! Knowledge can only become a living experience, deeply imprinted in their hearts, when it is verified and applied in practice.

Therefore, we must encourage children to step out of books and into life. Let them touch those things that only exist in words, let them personally experience the changes and joys that knowledge brings. For example, after learning the principles of mechanics in physics, they can make a small car model; after learning about acid-base reactions in chemistry, they can conduct a small experiment at home; after learning about the changes of dynasties in history, they can visit a museum to see ancient artifacts with their own eyes...

3. From "knowing" to "doing," the distance crossed is more than just physical

Here, there is a subtle shift from "knowing" to "doing." It seems like a step away, but in reality, it is worlds apart. Knowing is a cognitive understanding that stays in the mind; doing is the transformation of that understanding into action, a deep integration of knowledge and practice.

It’s like when we learned to ride a bicycle as children; at first, we only mentally recited the principles of balance, watching adults ride swiftly with envy. But when it was our turn, we found that those theoretical knowledge were simply not enough. We had to fall repeatedly and get back up, constantly adjusting our posture and strength, to finally master that seemingly simple two-wheeled vehicle.

This process is the leap from theory to practice. Children accumulate experience through attempts and failures, and build confidence through success and joy. They begin to understand that the formulas, theorems, and concepts in books are not sacred entities high above, but rather life wisdom that can be touched, felt, and applied.

4. Setbacks in practice are catalysts for growth

At this point, it must be mentioned that the path of practice is not always smooth sailing. Children will encounter setbacks, will fail, and may even feel frustrated and disappointed. But remember, these setbacks and difficulties are catalysts for their growth.

Like a rough stone, it takes a long time of washing and polishing in the river to become a smooth and rounded pebble. Every problem children encounter in practice is a test of their abilities and will. They need to reflect in failure, persist in setbacks, and seek solutions in difficulties.

As parents and teachers, what we need to do is not to clear all obstacles for them, but to be their solid support and wise guides. We should provide direction when they are confused, encouragement when they are frustrated, and praise when they succeed. Let them know that failure is not to be feared; what is truly frightening is losing the courage and confidence to try.

5. Knowledge is like a lighthouse, illuminating the path ahead

Finally, I want to say that knowledge is like lighthouses, guiding us in the ocean of life. And practice is the process of us steering our ships towards the lighthouse.

In this process, children will gradually discover that everything they learn is for a better life, to better serve others, and to better realize their own value. They will understand that knowledge is not just a tool for exams, but a power to change the world and create the future.

So, dear parents and teachers, let us work together to create a learning environment filled with love and encouragement for children, allowing them to dare to try, be brave in exploration, and be good at practice. Let them swim freely in the ocean of knowledge and grow robustly on the journey of practice. Because only in this way can they truly understand: knowledge is meant to be applied; and the future is something they must create themselves.

6. The symphony of knowledge and practice

When we view knowledge and practice as two complementary movements, they together compose a symphony about growth and exploration. Knowledge is the melodious tune that leads us to think and imagine; practice is the passionate rhythm that drives us to act and create.

Imagine children learning music, not only learning notes and music theory but also transforming those abstract notes into moving melodies through playing instruments. Similarly, when learning mathematics, they do not just memorize formulas and solve problems, but also integrate mathematical knowledge into daily life by solving practical problems, such as calculating family budgets or designing game rules.

This combination of knowledge and practice is like performing a symphony, where every note and every rhythm is closely connected, together constructing a wonderful movement. In this process, children not only master knowledge but also learn how to use knowledge to solve problems and create value.

7. From "I" to "we," the sharing and dissemination of knowledge

The value of knowledge lies not only in individual mastery and application but also in its sharing and dissemination. When children use the knowledge they have learned to help others and serve society, they not only achieve personal value but also promote social progress and development.

We can encourage children to participate in community service and public welfare activities, allowing them to apply their knowledge to solve real problems. For example, they can organize environmental awareness campaigns to educate community residents about environmental protection using scientific knowledge; they can participate in teaching activities to pass on what they have learned to children in remote areas. These activities not only deepen children's understanding of knowledge through practice but also let them feel the power and responsibility of knowledge.

At the same time, we can also promote knowledge exchange and sharing among children by establishing study groups and organizing knowledge competitions. Let them grow together through mutual learning and progress together through competition and cooperation. This process not only enhances children's teamwork skills but also ignites their love and pursuit of knowledge.

8. Continuous learning, a lifelong journey of growth

Finally, I want to emphasize that the combination of knowledge and practice is an ongoing process. In this rapidly changing era, we need to continuously learn new knowledge, master new skills, and adapt to new environments. Practice is an important way for us to test knowledge and enhance our abilities.

Therefore, we should encourage children to maintain curiosity and a thirst for knowledge, to bravely explore unknown fields, and to dare to challenge their own limits. At the same time, we should provide them with diverse learning resources and practical opportunities, allowing them to discover and realize themselves through continuous attempts and practices.

Remember, learning is a lifelong journey, not a temporary task. When we closely integrate knowledge and practice, we pave a broad road to success and happiness for children. On this road, they will continue to grow, continue to progress, and continue to create their own brilliant chapters.

This is exactly:

The sea of learning is boundless, practice is precious,

Knowledge and action advance together, spring naturally comes.

Treasure hunting in books requires diligent digging,

Wisdom blooms, bringing forth a fresh view.