Beginnings
– How I view my practice at the start of my current training –
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I particularly enjoy the fact that young children are very curious and every day is a learning day!! Children never fail to amaze me with their abilities, creativity, imagination and zest for life. I enjoy the fact young children are like "sponges" absorbing all the experiences and opportunities we have to offer in the setting.
My role as manager is to oversee the operational functioning of the nursery, ensuring all children are included and given a wide range of opportunities and experience in order to reach their full potential. My role of supporting staff through their learning journey is as important as supporting children, to create a culture of life long learning and reflective practice.
My practice is very child-centred as we plan in the moment following the children's interests. I am a huge advocate of children's rights and therefore they have choice in all aspects of the running of the nursery (of course in a safe environment). I really "listen" to children, whether it's communicated through behaviour, verbally, observations, photographs etc.
Our environment consists of the spaces we create (real life materials, loose parts, open ended recourses), the sensitive interactions of the staff- knowing when to intervene and when to step back) and the experiences we offer. We follow the child's interest and document using the floor book approach to reflect on the learning journey.
Although we set up the spaces, the children take autonomy by adapting the spaces to suit their interests, we set up provocations, however, the children add, take away resources depending on their play. We often ask the children what they would like, see etc. The children transport the resources to different spaces, for example, the house corner, often the resources are taken to another area if they are going on a picnic. The rhythm of the day is very free flow, where the children choose to play inside, outside, have snack etc
Oh my goodness!! I did not realise how Froebelian my practice was until I embarked on the one week training. My practice totally resonates the Froebelian principles!
I am very aware being a single parent as I know what it is like to struggle. Therefore all aspects of the nursery in terms of provision is equal and very inclusive regardless of your background, we create an ethos of respect for each other.
Every day is a learning day!!! I will embrace the course and moving forward continue to aspire to create high quality provision for all children and families.
We are a "family"
This quote is perfect!
"Our job is too difficult to do alone" (Amelia Gambetti, Reggio Emilia)