It was an amazing week spent together with very creative and optimistic people that all through the week shared with us knowledge, information, advice and suggestions on how can we improve our work as educators.
We spent a lot of time discussing the importance of approaching different activities, that it shouldn’t go only from the teachers to the students, but always a dialogue, and also the importance of materials – naturals, real – no plastic, no fake things.
This approach to education has the child at its center, its needs and wishes so we have to use it since children are the main reason why we are in education.
I would like to mention one of the days, that for me it was a turning point – Wednesday, when I talked with Meredith, one to one, and she explained to me for my group how I should talk to them, what kind of activities I should look into and how to help them be ready for school not only according to their knowledge but most important according to their confidence in their strengths, their ability to communicate with peers and to ask questions, not only to give answers and take everything just as it is given without processing it with their own minds. It was a very warm and relaxed discussion that made me aware of the importance of relationships between the teacher and the students, and between the other teachers.
Elaine and Michelle guided me on how I should organize my room in order for the kids to feel welcomed, and attracted to different areas and reflecting the kids work.
It was an interesting week and I am looking forward to applying everything I’ve learned. Thank you for investing in me!
Andreea – educator Gradinita Ganeden
Andrea,
You are more than welcome and we are so happy to be able to have helped you and inspired you. We look forward to seeing photos of all the great work you are doing. We are here to help you in the future!
Meredith