Fearlessness is not only possible, it is the ultimate joy. When you touch nonfear, you are free. —Thich Nhat Hanh, Zen Buddhist monk and author
“All pirates are fearless!” chanted the children as they read Tough Boris by Mem Fox. Pirate play invaded the classroom. The dramatic play area became a pirate paradise, with an upturned table as a ship and a bedsheet painted with a skull and crossbones as the sail. Shoe boxes held the treasure of old costume jewelry and rocks painted gold. Outdated AAA maps showed big Xs to mark the spots. Flags, eye patches, and scarves were fashioned from fabric scraps. All of this learning could only be nurtured by a teacher who is fearless! One not afraid to confront the naysayers clamoring for “real school” of letters, colors, numbers, and shapes. One who fearlessly supports children’s passions and interests but who is also able to fearlessly communicate the learning that is happening in the context of any play scenario. Pirates are fearless. Teachers need to be fearless, too.
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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