“Mrs. Johnson, when Jake* finishes his nap, I need you to make sure that he folds up his blanket like this.” The concerned mom tells me as she quickly folds up her 3 year-old-son’s blanket into a neat square. “This is how I am teaching him at home, and I want him to practice here.” “How much did Clara* eat today? Did she eat her sandwich and yogurt? I really need you to make sure that she is finishing her lunch before school is out.” “I just don’t know what to do with this ho

There are many benefits to including children with disabilities in typical preschools and child care centers, including: Young children have opportunities to learn from and share experiences with each other. This includes positive models for learning, communication and behaviors. All children feel a sense of belonging. Children of all ages learn to appreciate diversity in others. When everyone participates, children have opportunities to be creative, resourceful and cooperat

A little over seven years ago, I opened a nature based preschool in Portland, where children spend half of every day outside, learning from the natural world. While I enjoy a good, long hike, I am not the rugged outdoor type. I have a general dislike of cold and rain. I have only been camping once – to a KOA with a pool, showers and breakfast service. And the only pets I have ever kept at home have been small enough to fit in aquariums – fish, frogs, lizards.Yet the decision

We are pleased to announce the launch of our new blog! Our weekly posts will feature an inclusive collection of thoughts, experiences and reflections from four diverse Early Childhood professionals. Tune-in every Tuesday to connect with the thoughts of Early Childhood practitioners from varying perspectives on topics such as inclusion, nature-play, parent communication, and social emotional development. We hope that this blog will act as a place for inspiring conversations, m