To me [education] is about developing in the young certain dispositions. These dispositions should include being reflective, inquisitive, inventive, resourceful, full of wonder . . . and perhaps puzzlement, too.
—Lilian Katz, professor emerita of early childhood education
My challenge as an adult educator is training for disposition! This field requires that early childhood educators have a disposition, a habit of the mind, for meeting challenges, engaging in constant inquiry, nurturing an insatiable curiosity about children, thinking out of the box, exhibiting flexibility and playfulness, and building nurturing relationships. Can one train for disposition, or is the necessary habit of mind something that is hardwired into the brains of “natural” teachers? When was the last time you reflected with your mentor, director, or colleague? How do you engage in daily inquiry with your coteacher? What are you curious about? Perhaps nurturing a disposition for this work rests in your hands.
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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