This school year, I want you to be a cardboard box. Now you might be thinking to yourself, Carrie, what are you talking about? So let me explain.
Young children LOVE cardboard boxes. Cardboard boxes can hold them and their belongings. Cardboard boxes encourage them to use their imagination. Cardboard boxes allow space for problem-solving. Cardboard boxes are flexible and sturdy. Cardboard boxes don’t require you to have previous knowledge or a certain ability level. Cardboard boxes encourage spontaneity or a long-term plan. Most importantly, even when a cardboard box has a little damage, it still has just as many uses.
The system of early childhood education often sets us, the early childhood professionals, up for failure. We are required to put more and more on our plate without the support needed to keep it from tipping over. We are told that every moment is an opportunity for learning, which translates to doing more, all the time, and being part of everything in the classroom. I disagree with all of this.
I wish more early childhood professionals were given the freedom to be cardboard boxes. To sit, listen, and observe. To be present and support the needs of the individual children in their care. I believe that every moment is an opportunity to learn from the children. You can only do that if you are PART of the moment, NOT LEADING every moment.
