What if the key to raising resilient, grounded children isn't found in more activities, more technology, or more structured programs—but in less? In Part 2 of last week’s episode, William Durant—father of seven and founder of St. John Paul II Independent School—dives deeper into classical education through the lens of the “common arts.” He shares why hands-on work, good books, and a clear pursuit of truth are essential to forming thoughtful, grounded children in a world increasingly shaped by technology.

William also offers practical resources for families curious about classical education and simple steps for setting technology aside and learning to notice the beauty of everyday life.

HIGHLIGHTS

• The "common arts" philosophy: combining liberal arts (mind), fine arts (heart), and common arts (hands) to form the whole child
• How a fourth grader's struggle with chain mail weaving taught him perseverance—a lesson he couldn't learn from academics alone
• Why students are "evangelizing" to their parents about sourdough starters, leather work, and vegetable gardening
• The difference between surface-level modern education and the deep, integrated approach of classical learning
• How JP2 measures success: not through test scores, but through families saying "we wouldn't do it any other way"
• Why the school has no computers for students K-8, and how this prepares them better for the future
• Teaching students to question everything—even the historical inaccuracies in famous paintings like Washington Crossing the Delaware
• The reality of "dewiring" children's brains when they transition from public school to a slower, deeper pace of learning
• Practical first steps for parents: turn off the TV, read a story, look at the stars together
• Why it's never too late to change your parenting approach, even if your older children had a different experience

CHAPTERS

00:00 - Introduction and Welcome

00:15 - Homeschooling and Common Arts

01:02 - Student Engagement and Family Impact

01:30 - Traditional Values and Project-Based Learning

01:33 - Growth and Family Dynamics

02:49 - Hands-On Learning and Perseverance

05:27 - Founding a Classical School

08:25 - Classical vs. Modern Education

11:42 - Technology in Education

17:10 - The Role of Technology in Education

19:35 - Artistic License in Historical Representation

23:45 - Classical Education: Philosophy and Approach

27:00 - Integrating Classical Education into Modern Life

29:16 - Parental Guidance and Faith in Education

32:10 - Encouraging Ownership in Learning

35:05 - Practical Steps for Parents Interested in Classical Education

40:54 - Final Thoughts and Reflections

RESOURCES MENTIONED

• Classical U
• Classical School Wichita
• St. John Paul II Independent School (JP2)

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