I find it fascinating how the children's perspective, of what a fly really is, was changed and how it evolved throughout their dialogue and their experience. It simply amazes me how following the lead of the children who may be in your class can seem to change rapidly, but the growth and learning that come from experiences like this one, are simply beautiful to witness.

I love the way she is able to provide instruction through her wording. Paola is very intentional with her phrasing and explaining how to use the tools to help shape the clay. I hope to take this and be more intentional in how I ask children about their projects or materials so that my actions support how I have a strong image of a child.

What a powerful statement. Yes everyone grows, but to have the right to live so you can grow taller was a powerful message to me.

I think this explains in part why students love their actions to be narrated. Especially toddlers. I try to narrate their actions not only to help their language development, but to also acknowledge their hard work and the process that they are involved in.

Last year I noticed that the children in my classroom loved balls. So we explored balls for about 5-6 weeks. I think they could've kept going, but I think I was "in the way" so to speak and was worried what parents would think about having a two month or even three month long study. Part of me wishes I would have kept going.

As I get ready for our new school year, I had orientation day, and it was exciting to see my 18 month old students explore the space my team organized and that we created for them. In fact, I didn't realize it, but I even gave them spaces the are trying to support the engagement of small groups.

This reminds me of a specific part in the Everyday Utopias video, where the children were able to make proposals of what jobs and activities that they wanted to participate in during the day. Then their teacher validates their choices and follows through with coordinating with the other teachers and students so everyone can explore what they wanted to.

What A powerful title for parents. I have had some parents who fit this title very well. They want to know what is going on in the classroom. They also want to come and be a apart of the process to watch learning happen in the classroom.

I think part of this initial cooperation was so effective, is that their community, and each person, was sincere in their desire to create a loving community where everyone has value. Each person choose to respect and even uplift each member of their community. I think they had the "vision" of what they wanted their community to look like, from the very beginning. And that everyone believed in the vision.