A little over a week ago I participated in the most awesome programme of my life. September marks 40 years since I started my teacher training (completed in 1972) in England — against the odds but that’s another story!
My recent intensive week studying the practical work of Hungarians Magda Gerber and Emmi Pikler as it relates to infants and toddlers (with a great deal of research thrown in for good measure) simply confirmed what I have long thought about, acted upon and ultimately written about on this blog.
The week was life changing in every regard, from the people I met to the materials and facts presented to us.
I believe I brought a better attitude to my work with the children I care for when I returned to work this past week. Just as well!
The day before I left for my course I was quite ready to walk out of our facility. I’d screamed at one of my colleagues due to her neglectful attitude towards the children. So I needed to be away for a while!
The stars were in fact aligned for my whole week — it was perfect in every regard.
Two of us saw the space shuttle take off while standing on a Florida beach on the Wednesday evening, we swam and surfed in the Atlantic Ocean to celebrate the safe lift off, we were taken on a sunset boat ride along a fantastic river nearby, I met awesome colleagues from northern, southern and coastal states of the US and even one person who came all the way from England!
We laughed and learned together and from these 13 ladies (a facilitator, her able assistant, me and 11 other participants, currently working ‘in the trenches’ as it were) I am inspired to make a greater difference with very young children who are consigned to our daycare approximately 50 weeks of the year.
Whether or not all staff members and our owner will want to learn more I don’t care. At least I know that what I do is right to help these babies and toddlers become the best they can be.
Life is good and I’m writing again!