Tag Archives: engaging

Routines

How many times have you read Goodnight Moon? In a day? In a week? In a row? If there is a young child in your life I bet there is A book that has been read until you can let … Continue reading

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From Amateur to Expert

We are used to the idea that kids need time to go from amateur to expert. We don’t expect them to roll over…then get up and run around the room. We even have a buzzy education word to describe helping … Continue reading

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Museum Education: An Origin Story

“How did you get into museum education?” It is probably the 1st question I get asked when I start explaining my work. I’m sure I’m not alone and many of my Museum Ed colleagues talk about inspiring teachers, memorable internships … Continue reading

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Invitations to Play

“Invitations to Play” is a buzzword I didn’t even know existed until I joined Pinterest. Now, I scroll through hundreds of blogs all linked to this idea.  Basically, an “invitation to play” is a set of materials that you set … Continue reading

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Encouraging Play in Museums

“Teaching kids to play” is something that goes on constantly at home and in the early childhood classroom, but it also has implications for a museum or other informal learning space.  These kids are just learning the fundamentals of play, … Continue reading

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Teaching Kids How to Play

It seems to so counter-intuitive to us adults that children need to be “taught” how to play. After all, they are kids! It is what they do! Think about it though, we call play “the work of children,” how many … Continue reading

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“Engaging Young Children in Museums”- New Book!

I’ve talked a lot about the Smithsonian Early Enrichment Center (SEEC) on this blog. It was my first “classroom teaching” gig and gave me a chance every day to try out ways that the museum could benefit young children. Sharon … Continue reading

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Product vs. Process Centered Art

“Process vs. Product” centered art is a pretty trendy buzzword in early childhood education circles. But, what does it mean? Why does it matter? After all, aren’t all art/craft projects a process? In a nutshell, “Product” centered art is when … Continue reading

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Presentation Inspiration

                                            “Conference Selfie” Is that a thing? My favorite kind of presentation is the one where I don’t have to do a whole lot. No, not because I am lazy, but because it means the conversation has taken off and … Continue reading

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“Reading” Wordless Books

Have you ever tried to read a wordless book with your child? Even for someone who is an enthusiastic and confident reader, I get a little stuck with those. Without words to guide you, it is easy to feel a … Continue reading

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