When Cat wakes up in the morning, I go into her room and we have a quiet chat about whatever is on her mind that day. She tells me what she dreamed about, and I remind her of what we have scheduled that day, if anything. A few days ago, she climbed onto my lap … Continue reading “I Choose For Me”
Author: eilonwy902
Conflicting Needs – Mr. Pig’s Party
I was having a rough day. My husband, Dove, was having to work long hours, leaving me with a greater share of the childcare and housework than usual. We were getting over being sick. I was not completely sure how I was going to complete everything on my long to-do list for the day. But … Continue reading “Conflicting Needs – Mr. Pig’s Party”
Needs, Wants
Toys. Treats. Outings. Parties. As a child, there were a great many things that I desired with a powerful intensity. So I would ask my mom. Sometimes she would say yes, but generally the answer was no. As an adult, I am grateful that she did not give me everything I wanted all the time. … Continue reading “Needs, Wants”
I teach (if I have to)
Before I studied education, I rarely (if ever) gave any thought to educational philosophy. Teachers teach, students learn. It’s simple. It’s like a math equation. Teaching equals learning. If I want my child to learn things, someone will need to teach her those things. I never questioned my belief in how it important it is … Continue reading “I teach (if I have to)”
Surprise!
Last Sunday was a very rough day. Cat was in an extremely defiant mood. She placed a ball into her mouth. I asked her to take it out, as it’s a choking hazard. A minute later, she placed it back in her mouth, seeming to shove it in as far as she could. I confiscated … Continue reading “Surprise!”
Filling the Toolbox
I spent 8 years as a 911 operator and fire / rescue dispatcher. I spent over 7 of those years as a 911 operator and dispatcher trainer. I was a good trainer. Easily one of the best in the center. And a big part of my success as a trainer came down to a decision … Continue reading “Filling the Toolbox”
Worth the Risk
I’ve been thinking a lot about what I want to say about risk. About why I wholly embrace risky play for my child, and frequently encourage other parents to do the same. Risk, particularly risk to children, is a complicated and controversial topic in our society. None of us want to see children come to … Continue reading “Worth the Risk”
Normal, like Storms
Big feelings are normal, but sometimes they can be completely inexplicable Cat and I were having a quiet morning, Cat had chosen to watch TV and I was getting some stuff done around the house. I had exactly zero solid plans for the day. Cat came over to where I was working and asked me … Continue reading “Normal, like Storms”
Volcanoes!
While studying education I was taught how important it is that we teach children ideas in a connected way. Children learn so much better when what their learning is connected to something they already know, and have been thinking about. Also, it’s best to connect ideas across the different areas of development. If you’re doing … Continue reading “Volcanoes!”
Why Should I Worry?
My daughter is a late talker. Way late. As she grew and developed, I watched in bemusement as younger babies and toddlers blew past her in verbal milestones. But I didn’t worry. Since preschool teachers are often the first to recognize developmental delays, I was taught when to worry. Or at least, when to … Continue reading “Why Should I Worry?”