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”

Affordable Online Yoga Classes

This week I began offering online Yoga classes through Santa Fe Community Yoga‘s virtual studio (check out their website & blog for some great resources). They are Santa Fe’s only nonprofit yoga studio, with a mission to cultivate holistic well-being through yoga and other mindfulness practices. SFCY offers affordable access to classes and many waysContinue reading “Affordable Online Yoga Classes”

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”

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”

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”

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”

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”