Care
Too often we underestimate the power of a touch, a smile, a kind word, a listening ear, an honest compliment, or the smallest act of caring, all of which have the potential to turn a life around.
—Leo Buscaglia, author and professor of special education
Each letter in the word care contains the essence of our job description as early childhood educators. Think of the letter C as composed and calm, serene and tranquil. Children reflect our demeanors, and our composure can help them find their own self-control and calm. The letter A stands for our attention to attentiveness. Every child deserves our individual and undivided attention at some point during our busy days. The letter R is for responsiveness. An early childhood educator is a responsive teacher who uses observation and assessment to differentiate and provide for individual children. Early childhood educators, or as Magda Gerber referred to them, educarers, are E—engaged with children as evidenced by their eye contact, body language, conversation, and respectful listening. How will you show children that you care?
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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