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”
Category Archives: Reggio-inspired education
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”
Technology in Early Childhood Education
Technology in Early Childhood Education is a touchy subject. There’s a lot to unpack in terms of use, access and even what technology is. As an artist and Reggio-inspired early childhood educator/researcher I embrace technology in many forms. Conversely, I sometimes encounter educators who regard technology as a burden. This perspective usually has to doContinue reading “Technology in 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”
Exchange Magazine Article
Excited to add my voice to the chorus of bold Early Childhood Educators by way of my first published article in Exchange Magazine. This issue is all about Reggio-inspired practices in diverse contexts and illustrates just how dynamic the possibilities for innovative, high-quality early childhood education are.
Curious Bluebird
cu·ri·ous /ˈkyo͝orēəs/ adjective eager to know or learn something. strange; unusual. This summer I moved from New Orleans to Santa Fe; a move that is inspiring many new ideas and ways of being, including a new iteration of my business as Curious Bluebird, LLC. Bluebird is a name I chose fifteen years ago because IContinue reading “Curious Bluebird”
origin of the river
Recently I designed and led an end-of-the-year ceremony for the faculty & staff of the Louise S. McGehee School here in New Orleans. The ceremony centered around Yoga-inspired practices (movement, meditation, breath-work, music, art, singing & ritual) focusing on Renewal & Release. This theme was informed by many things, including the dualistic qualities of waterContinue reading “origin of the river”
Mindfulness & Yoga Workshops for Early Childhood Educators
Not only do I love participating in Yoga & Reggio-inspired learning experiences with children, but I also value sharing my skills and experiences with these approaches with fellow educators and caregivers. Taking some time during my semester break to focus on growing the audience for one of my favorite workshops, “Mindfulness & Yoga for EarlyContinue reading “Mindfulness & Yoga Workshops for Early Childhood Educators”