Well, I double-dog dare you! —Schwartz, A Christmas Story
Do you dare to be the early childhood educator that children deserve? I dare you to: Dream of endless possibilities for curriculum—beyond letters, colors, numbers and holidays—to inspire children; Act upon those dreams despite protests from families, meeting standards, and pressure to “get children ready”; Realize with children and families being present to teachable moments and learning opportunities in our everyday lives; and Enjoy mutual moments of discovering the extraordinary in the ordinary of our days. I dare you to stomp puddles, feel the wind in your hair, turn your face to the sun, watch the clouds, roll in the grass, sift sand through your fingers, and watch ants.
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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