Pushing Up
The revolutionary nature of collective cooperative care lies in its ability to challenge dominant systems that prioritize individualism, competition, and hierarchical, misguided expertise — in short, the “push down” — in early childhood education. By working cooperatively, a small group of committed individuals can create profound and lasting change—demonstrating that early childhood education flourishes when it is rooted in relationships, shared responsibility, and deep respect for children as capable learners.
The Pillbug
Our first three customers, glanced up and over their sand stirring and scooping at the insect perched on the Queen's palm and said in answer to "What do you call this?" "Bug." "Bug." "Worm."
The Power of Storytelling
While we have many reasons for spending so much time on story -- we know the research. We know that story is essential to brain development, language acquisition, literacy, resiliency, and empathy -- sure we do! But here, gathered around a campfire, we hear and watch our work take flight as the children become the story tellers.
What I Learned in Kindergarten
I remember sitting at the edge of my teacher’s desk watching her eat an apple. Not watching, staring, I am sure of it now. Mrs. Madsen ate the whole apple. The whole apple! Except for the seeds. She held out these seeds in the palm of her hand and said, “Now, these will be for more apples."