Children are born with the the inner tools for learning; we, as parents and educators, offer to support their unquenchable desire to develop, to grow, and to become. They are compelled along a unique trajectory of development – finding the support they need to take their own next steps. As a thoughtful community, we surround our youngest and future generation, gifting them with connection to their lifelong learning tools. In this way, we guarantee that they will always have the best teacher in the world.
The best teacher in the world is a child’s sense of curiosity. As a supportive community, we must always ask, “Why do you suppose that is?”
The best teacher in the world is a child’s sense of wonder. As a supportive community, we must always reflect, “Huh. That’s interesting.”
The best teacher in the world is a child’s impulses. As a supportive community, we must leave the careless “No” behind and embrace, “Let’s see how to make it work.”
The best teacher in the world is a child’s intensity. As a supportive community, we must always seek connection over consequences, clear limits over permissiveness, and flexibility over absolutes.
The best teacher in the world is a child’s perspective. As a supportive community, we must spend more time eye-to-eye with children, honoring their perspective with our physical awareness.
The best teacher in the world is a child’s sense of timing. As a supportive community, we must learn to extend, slow down, and sit.
May your week be abundantly full as you seek to support the children in your lives through this important work.
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It’s so important to slow down enough to honor the natural curiosity and wonder of a child. Beautifully written, Emily!
Thank you!
Amazing! Thank you for this reminder and the inspiration to keep offering my children opportunities to grow!
You are so welcome! Thanks for your thoughts!