Learning by Doing

"Do or do not, there is no try." - Yoda

Remember when learning meant doing? When “science class” was building a baking soda volcano and “history” was reenacting the Boston Tea Party (minus the actual destruction of tea—because, you know, consequences)? That’s experiential learning. And it turns out, it’s not just a fun way to break up a school day—it’s how kids learn best.

So What Exactly Is Experiential Learning?

Fancy term, simple concept. Experiential learning means learning through hands-on experience. Instead of just reading about physics, you build the bridge. Instead of memorizing math formulas, you apply them to solve a real-world problem. It’s interactive, engaging, and—bonus—it actually sticks.

How Kids Benefit

• More Fun, More Learning – Studies show kids retain more information when they learn through experience rather than passive listening. (Source: The Guardian)
• Better Problem-Solving Skills – Instead of reciting facts, kids learn to think through real challenges.
• Social Growth – Working together on a project teaches teamwork, leadership, and communication—AKA, life skills.

How Parents Benefit

• Less Screen Time, More Real-World Time – Parents are always looking for ways to pry kids off devices. Experiential learning is an easy win.
• Higher Engagement in Education – When kids are excited about learning, parents don’t have to force homework. (We see you, nightly homework battles.)
• Stronger Parent-Child Bond – Parents who engage in hands-on activities with their kids get a front-row seat to their growth.

How Schools Benefit

• More Engaged Students – Interactive learning keeps students focused and reduces boredom (bye, glazed-over stares).
• Stronger Academic Outcomes – Schools that incorporate experiential learning see improved test scores and higher retention rates.
• A Positive School Culture – More collaboration = fewer behavioral issues and a happier school environment.

Enter Mentmii: Experiential Learning in Action

Mentmii takes this idea and runs with it. Our platform connects grade schoolers with local high school skill-share caregivers who teach through hands-on experience.

• Want to learn guitar? Get lessons from the lead guitarist of your high school band.
• Need help in math? Work through problems with a tutor who actually gets it.
• Dreaming of building a robot? Learn from someone who’s already building them.

Mentmii isn’t just childcare. It’s skill-share caregiving—where kids learn more, teens earn more, and parents stress less.

The Data Backs It Up

• Outdoor Learning Boosts Performance – Studies show that hands-on, outdoor education improves cognitive skills and school performance. (The Guardian)
• ‘Edutainment’ Is on the Rise – More parents are turning to learning experiences that blend fun and education. (Parents.com)
• Early Career Exploration Helps Kids Succeed – Hands-on learning about careers before college boosts long-term success. (NY Post)

TL/DR

Experiential learning is the future of education. Kids learn better when they do, not just listen. Parents win, schools win, and students thrive.

And with Mentmii, experiential learning isn’t just happening in schools—it’s happening right in your neighborhood.

Ready to give your kid real-world learning experiences? Find a local skill-share caregiver today.

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