Confusion of my Own!

I've been learning about adult learners and education for some time now and I'm struggling to see the difference between adults and children. I know it seems silly and I know there are studies that show how adults learn, but the differences are not that different (in my opinion).  Some of the thoughts are that adults need to know what they are learning and why they are learning that concept.  Well, 6th graders asked me all the time, "Why do I need to know that?"  Another idea is that adults are more self-directed.  I agree, but I also agree that children are self-directed too.  If there is a topic they are interested in...they will learn and they will enjoy learning. The motivation to learn for adults is stronger (apparently).  I disagree.  You give a 6th grader a white board and marker and let me tell you their motivation to learn just increased ten-fold.  Can you image what would happen if you gave them an ipad?  Adults have more of a readiness to learn.  Children are ready to learn too.  They have life experiences that could sometimes exceed our own.  I don't think we should look past these young minds for one second.  They are sponges ready to absorb anything that comes their way with the right facilitation.