Article Link: http://stage.exchangepress.com/article/no-ordinary-moments-using-observations-with-toddlers-to-invite-further-engagement/5017236/
The year I spent closely observing toddlers as a child care teacher was one of the most intellectually engaging and joyful years of my career. I kept a daily journal and took lots of photos of the unfolding activities that seemed significant to me and the children. I studied the photos and notes for myown learning and also loved sharing them with the children and their families.
Every observation was full of accounts of the children’s remarkable focus and determination, curiosity and delight. Whether happy or sad, angry or tired, the children brought to every encounter
an innate optimism and an eagerness for new experiences. My observations confirmed the current research that reports that the natural inquisitiveness and drive of these very young children ensures that during the first three years of life their brains will develop faster than at any other time. With an astounding 250,000 brain connections growing each minute, there are no ordinary moments during this time of life! The significance of this work was humbling and exciting. My hope was to find a way to take in each of these extraordinary moments with the children, to honor them and help them grow.
Seeking the children’s perspectives
It took practice ...