Positive Thinking in Early Childhood Environments

This month we came across an article in the ASCD magazine Educational Leadership that discussed the very important idea of positive teachers. In the article, writer Marge Scherer presented the thought that by nature "educators are professionally predisposed to be optimistic." She states that most teachers go into the teaching profession to help children achieve success and "fullfill their dreams."

One important thought came to mind after scanning the article, teaching and caring for infants, toddlers and young children is especially challenging. Yet it is essential that those of us in the early childhood field remain "fresh" and "positive" through the unique challenges of each day. After all this is one of the most important times in a child's life and we're an important influence in the quality of their lives!

Here are a few of our thoughts about simple ways to stay "fresh" and "positive."

• Build relationships with the children - take a minute to learn what each one really loves or is especially interested in.
• When you feel less than positive - ask the children to look into your eyes and share a "smile."
• Notice the children's ability to start each day anew - celebrate the newness of the day.
• Take a moment to notice the simple joy in your children's faces when they learn something new.

Do you have any special "tips" or "strategies" to share with others that you use to stay positive?

Read the full article on the ASCD website: Perspectives / Ode to Positive Teachers

The Press Preschool Debate

In the last 2 weeks several controversial articles have appeared online and in various print publications debating the real educational value of "preschool." To those of us in the field, its not surprising to read further and discover much of the debate seems driven by those concerned about the taxpayer spending required should Universal Pre-K be adopted at state or federal levels.

To read the full Wall Street story visit: http://online.wsj.com/article/SB121997547720682181.html?mod=googlenews_wsj

Read Dr. Barnett's rebuttal! http://nieer.org/docs/index.php?DocID=240

High quality early child care is expensive. Some feel that with the need for families to earn 2 incomes to support their basic needs, our country has no choice but to provide Universal Prek.

We'd like your input! What's your opinion?