One looks back with appreciation to the brilliant teachers, but with gratitude to those who touched our human feelings. The curriculum is so much necessary raw material, but warmth is the vital element for the growing plant and for the soul of the child. —Carl Jung, psychiatrist
Responsive curriculum is not found in cute prepackaged lesson plans. Curriculum means a course of study that can set a path for children’s exploration, discovery, relationship building, and problem solving. Each child has a path, and the wise person allows the child to be the teacher. Provide curriculum based on relationships that occur within the planned and unplanned activities, experiences, and happenings in the classroom. Curriculum is not something you do to children; it is something that happens because of your relationship with children, materials, and place. You learn what the child has to teach you about her interests, skills, knowledge, capabilities, and needs. Children must perceive their own exploration, discovery, and problem solving; you help to set the course.
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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