Attention
The moment one gives close attention to anything, even a blade of grass, it becomes a mysterious, awesome, indescribably magnificent world in itself.
—Henry Miller, author
How do you satisfy your own need for attention? How do children get your attention? Notice the children whom you pay attention to. Do you focus on the children who are sweet, kind, and attractive? Do you pay attention to those who are competent and confident? Do you pay attention to those who are misbehaving, challenging, loud, physical, and unpredictable? What about those children who seem to escape our attention altogether? Children will seek attention from important adults in ways that may be less than acceptable. Your daily challenge is to invest attention in each child. Carve out meaningful individual time, and help the other children understand your intent: “I know you need my attention, and I understand how difficult it is to wait, but right now your friend needs my attention.”
In loving memory of Gryphon House author Leanne Grace, MEd, we are sharing pieces of her inspirational writing every Wednesday.
Leanne was the director of professional development at Hildebrandt Learning Centers and a lifelong advocate for early childhood education. She inspired the early childhood community to prepare children as lifelong learners with her ability to find the extraordinary in the ordinary. One person can make a difference, and Leanne did just that. She will be sorely missed.
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