The list calls to mind quotes about how doing what is right is not always easy or popular...

I agree. Knowing what we know about young children, I often wonder why this approach continues to be the reality for the great majority of schools. On the other hand, it makes total sense how an assessment approach that aims to provide "easily" and "equally" quantifiable results has a place in a system that depends so heavily on numbers (enrollment, financial, test scores, etc.) to operate.

This reminds me of an ongoing exchange between two 4yos in my context- we are exploring leaves and one boy recently expressed "The leaves are like the tree's mouth.", to which another replied "No! The roots are the tree's mouth!" This debate is ongoing and recently evolved into the latter child stating "The roots and the leaves are the tree's mouths...and they eat their own mouth!"I am thrilled to be part of this exploration and grateful for having these listening principles to guide my participation.

So true! One of the things that brought me to working with young children is their ability to notice and unveil the wonder of everyday things. This way of noticing and being in the world is such a gift.

This is akin to the critique process in art school or other collaborative settings in the “art world” where engaging with peers to explore conceptual and formal considerations of (art)work is the norm. The inclusion of this practice is one of my favorite things about the Reggio approach.

Thinking of the role of teacher in this way gives me a feeling of hope and excitement. How wonderful to approach this work in a way that embraces change.

I can't help but think of happens when teachers & schools don't respond in such an open way to "controversial" prompts from children. What a gift!

Wonderful questions and such an insightful observation by and of the children.

So much truth in this statement; being open to possibilities and finding comfort in the unknown is such a rich way to experience the world. Its empowering to see this message connected to the role of the educator and the school environment.

I absolutely LOVE this language about learning. It's empowering and so opposite from my school experience in the 1980's/90's at a small Southern private "sit at your desk / pay attention / don't question anything" school.