Exploring the possibilities...

I have found much of the course very validating. Emergent curriculum sounds like something that needs "do-ing", but I've found it is actually a natural product of a child-led program. If we are listening to children and taking their lead, the rest comes with time (and self-reflection). When I was an educator on the floor, my impulse was always to throw caution to the wind and embark on whatever adventure children wanted to take me on. If anything, my programming likely needed a bit more structure, but I have such an immense craving for children's ideas. I already know how I see the world. I'm seeking something NEW! I've heard my own story a hundred times, I want to hear theirs

I find a lot of my struggle has been in de-programming educators from fiercely held practices that don't seem to match their values. This course has already given me many tools to broach that conversation. Reading over the many images of the child that we can hold as educators were eye-opening. I can recognize many of the ways we can commodify children for the benefit of educators or even parents. I see many long-held traditions of child care that seem to cater to parents, without always bringing benefit to the children. (Does a 3-year-old need the graduation from preschool in front of a group of parents and peers? Are there ways to celebrate that milestone in a way that reflects the needs and ideas of the child?)

This experience brought a different aspect of thinking and kept wondering about what I know, what I am wondering and what is really important. Felt empowered that change comes from oneself and communicates it with others. Again, this experience was overwhelming but in the best way. I really enjoyed this format of discussions and exchange. You girls (Karen and Jessica) did great work