Loris Malaguzzi, pioneer of the Reggio Emilia approach, is oft quoted asserting in early childhood settings there should be, “nothing without joy”. How can educators find joy in challenging times? This year has been unbelievably challenging, upsetting, and unprecedented. I made it my goal this year to find and cultivate joy. But what…
From Interest to Theory
Moving beyond student interest and identifying the theories they are exploring
Childhood Amnesia
What is early childhood amnesia, and what does it mean for educators?
Back to School- Adjustment Models
It’s back to school time! For early childhood teachers, this inevitably means inconsolable crying for some or most of their students as they experience separation anxiety being away from their parents. It’s a very difficult time for young children and parents, and just as painful for the teacher. Last year I was made aware…
The Learning Story
I’ve learned a new approach to reporting- The learning story.
Mindful Minute- Metta
For the youngest children, we know sitting still is an inappropriate expectation. What then about finding stillness in mindful meditation? If you follow my posts, you’ll find a number of activities to promote mindfulness in young children. I also am presently finding outstanding results meditating with ‘metta’- unconditional loving kindness & good will. Burmese…
Nature Deficit Disorder
In his book, Last Child in the Woods, Richard Louve addresses the dangers of ‘nature deficit disorder’. In Orion Nature Quarterly, Louve’s article, Leave No Child Inside, again asserts the importance of creating opportunities for children to connect with the natural world. My previous post spoke about how I’m taking my students out for…
Forest School
This year I’ve started a new job at a school blessed with a beautiful and vast forest outside our front door. One day a week we spend the whole morning playing out in the forest. In these forest school sessions, I’ve watched the children develop resilience, gross motor coordination, camaraderie, and connection to and love…
Separation Anxiety
It’s back to school time!
Mindful Minute: Flower Meditation
“Imagine we have flowers in our hearts.”
Child Centric 