Category Archives: Outschool

technology as a tool of empowerment for young children

Children are naturally active, empowered protagonists in their relationships with modern technologies. NAEYC/Fred Rogers Center Position Statement on Technology and Interactive Media in Early Childhood Programs notes “When used intentionally and appropriately, technology and interactive media are effective tools to support learning and development.”  Learning spaces and experiences that support child-directed interaction, accompanied by respectfulContinue reading “technology as a tool of empowerment for young children”

Literacy and Early Childhood Education

The Reggio Emilia Approach to Early Childhood Education offers inspiration in so many ways. I’m particularly inspired by the Reggio philosophy of the hundred languages of children and how this shows up in literacy explorations by and for children. (i.e. child-led vs. teacher-led) I recently began offering a new Outschool class, Creating and Experiencing Stories:Continue reading “Literacy and Early Childhood Education”

Inner Child, Inner Light

In the Yogic tradition the word “Namaste” is often used as an expression of gratitude; a way to say “the light in me sees, honors & appreciates the light in you.” I think of this inner light like our inner child. What would the world be like if everyone remained connected to and honored theirContinue reading “Inner Child, Inner Light”

Learning Environment Design

One of my thesis projects for graduate school invited an exploration in developing and articulating commitments to the design of learning environments. This reflective practice pushed me to look more closely at myself and how I exist alongside the learners in my context of Outschool. Guiding questions included- What do the children and families inContinue reading “Learning Environment Design”

Literacy and the Hundred Languages of Children

I’ve always found joy in reading and writing, and for a long time I associated literacy only with reading and comprehending text. I think this is due to the way the concept of literacy was presented in my PK-12 school experience. In college I expanded my definition of literacy to include computer, design, digital mediaContinue reading “Literacy and the Hundred Languages of Children”

The Role of the Teacher in Early Childhood Education

A teacher, in any educational context, is a compassionate learning partner who skillfully engages in dynamic practices that enrich lives. The image of the teacher as a person who holds power above children and families is one that we need to discard permanently in order to advocate for a strong image of the child andContinue reading “The Role of the Teacher in Early Childhood Education”

children, digital media & innovation in education

The chapters exploring the Atelier and use of digital media with young children in The Hundred Languages of Children are some of my favorites. They are rich with inspiring stories, ideas and innovative thinking around possibilities for empowering children in multifaceted explorations of ideas, materials and technology. “…we have to give closer attention to theContinue reading “children, digital media & innovation in education”

Reggio-inspired Education in the Virtual Space

Before I launch into my thoughts on this topic, I want to state that I know everyone is trying their best- especially in recent months. Parents of young children in particular are deserving of much grace and support as they work to navigate these trying times. I in no way mean to belittle or diminishContinue reading “Reggio-inspired Education in the Virtual Space”

Outschool + Reggio-inspired Education

Like thousands of educators and families, I became aware of Outschool during the global shift to distance learning. Prior to March 2020 I was not familiar with online education options and only through engaging in distance learning with my class of once in-person students did I come to understand the possibilities for connection & explorationContinue reading “Outschool + Reggio-inspired Education”