“…the best thing to keep in mind is that this is the learning - the main, vital, critical thing the children need to learn how to do - be in the world with others…”
Read More“…what does observation mean in a preschool classroom? What does it call on us to do? That we simply watch the children? That we can recall what they did in a day? That we know who gets along with whom and can account for the feelings the child shares at home. In some senses, yes. But really, observation is more than having a general sense of each child or interaction for the purpose of reporting. If used effectively, observation is the foundation upon which we choose our next steps as teachers...”
Read MorePractice, Not Magic is a series of posts about the practical aspects of living alongside young children.
…To a child under the age of about 6, stopping mid-game really can feel like it’s the end of that play experience forever. Our goal as the adult, beyond just getting the space cleaned up and facilitating a transition, is to support the child to move from a mental place of scarcity (“I must do this now because I will never have what I want again”) to one of trust (“I know my ideas and my things are safe in my family/classroom and will be available again”)…
Read MoreMicah Card is a writer and educator in Los Angeles, CA.
No Magic Lecture is a blog about teaching, learning, and living alongside young children, though the principles here apply to all learners (including you!). Creating a meaningful life with children is about holding a vision and seeing it through together. The phrase “No Magic Lecture” means there is no one perfect thing that must make or break a moment, a behavior, a child, family, or classroom. It’s a reminder, reprieve, and an invitation. Welcome.
Micah Card is a writer and educator in Santa Cruz, CA. She believes in the power of children, thinking deeply and critically, and in reminding ourselves that the point of all this is to grow.
To learn more about Micah’s work and credentials, click here.
