Communication can be our biggest stumbling block to having successful relationships. In this post, we look at strategies that we can use to build and enhance productive relationships with our program leadership.
Read MoreSometimes, we fall into the trap of believing other people are responsible for meeting our needs in the workplace. The care and nurturing of productive relationships start with self.
Read MoreEach year the children bring new games and toys in the program. How can educators support the children’s interest in new toys and characters and inspire the children to express their own creativity?
Read MoreBe open to new experiences. The outcome we imagine is often different from the experience. Every new experience will feature twists and turns as we explore and interpret how to work with new tools and the medium.
Read MoreAs the children build trust with each other in play this creates stronger bonds within the learning community. The lessons the children learn about people through play carry over into life.
Read MoreThe outcomes of child directed learning are beneficial to all members of the learning community. Projects initiated by the children create opportunities for the learning community to come together and learn as one.
Read MoreTeaching is a lifelong process of challenges and discovery. Having other educators to collaborate with and learn from makes the journey of understanding our practice more insightful and enjoyable.
Read MoreWe were invited to participate in a group sculpture challenge. What happened when we proposed this idea to the children? What were the challenges of engaging in this type of work? What did we learn by observing the collaboration between children and educators?
Read MoreThis is a story about one child beginning an investigation of potion making. How did our observations of this work create opportunities for other children in the program?
Read MoreOur words, thoughts, and actions are the tools educators use to guide children along the learning journey. As educators, we have to decide to what degree competition and collaboration fit into our practice.
Read MoreOne afternoon we embarked on learning journey exploring the properties of foil. We investigated the wonderful possibilities of the material and in the process shared kindness with others.
Read MoreWhen choosing their own work, often children are engaged with other children. The process of exploring questions is done in collaboration. The process of discovery and creation then becomes a place for social interaction and learning about each other.
Read MoreAn important part of building a learning community is inviting all members to contribute to the growth and advancement of the community. Contribution encourages ownership and pride in the work being done and creates feelings of connection to continued success.
Read MoreWe all contribute to our community through our actions, which have a ripple effect, influence others, and our own future actions. It is a continuous stream of positive and negative effects flowing from our actions that shape our daily experience.
Read MoreIn lives that are very busy, we often skip the foundations that make us successful and fulfilled in our practice. Taking time to authentically hear each other, to listen for understanding, and not just waiting to speak, will fundamentally change how we engage in our practice as early childhood educators.
Read MoreLast week I went to the annual Montessori Tea. The Tea is a chance for Montessorians to come together and celebrate two exceptional individuals in the Montessori community, and to celebrate the spirit of Maria Montessori through the teachers and leaders work. What is exceptional about this event is the acts of the community that happen during the Tea.
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