The current norm for the education of young children weighs heavy on my mind.

We need to remember what it is to be a child.

Being a child does not look like being a "little adult".

It looks different.

As adults...as educators...as parents...we need to be cognisent that we ALWAYS keep on the front-burner what is absolutely best for the child...

not best for us...

but best FOR THE CHILD!

Red Paint in the Hair??!!

Lisa Murphy can be reached at www.ooeygooey.com (800) 477-7977

RED PAINT IN THE HAIR??!!

Red paint in the hair? Blue paint on the jeans? Sand in the shoes? Peanut butter on the favorite shirt? White socks that look brown?  Sleeves a little bit damp?

Your child probably. . . 

Worked with a friend

Created a masterpiece

Solved a problem

Learned a new skill

Had a great time

Developed new language

Your child probably didn’t. . .

Feel lonely

Become bored

Do repetitive “babyish” tasks

Do worksheets

Do “sit down” work that is not appropriate for their age group

You probably. . .

Paid good money for the clothes

Will have trouble getting the red paint out

Are wondering if your caregiver isn’t paying close enough attention to your child

Your caregiver probably. . .

Was aware of your child’s needs and interests

Spent time planning a challenging activity for the children

Encouraged the children to try new things

Made smocks available for the children

Was worried you might be concerned

Try to remember your favorite activity when you were four years old.  Was it outdoor play with water, mud dress-up clothes?  Young children really learn when they are actively involved in play – not when someone is talking to them.  There is a difference between “messy” and “lack of supervision”.  The caregiver made sure your child was fed, warm, took a nap, washed hands after toileting and before eating, and planned messy fun things to do because that is how young children learn!  Send your child to school in clothes that can get dirty!  Keep extra old clothes at the play site for times when the child gets really wet or messy.  If you need to take the child out, bring the dressier clothes when picking up, and allow time to change.  Keep calm.  Remember in a few years the teenagers will use the shampoo, mirrors and all the towels!  Young children need time to be kids.  If you have concerns talk to your child’s caregiver about active play!

Although not written by Lisa Murphy, this was shared with you by Lisa Murphy, Ooey Gooey, Inc. who found it a l-o-n-g time ago in the San Diego YMCA/CRS Newsletter, Summer 1996, who gave credit to OPTIONS Summer 1995 Newsletter.