Ruby Tuesday

This week, I have been lucky enough to visit the Early Learners and see my future Kindergarten students in action. I have visited their learning space three different times to have a glimpse into their world and make initial connections.  The aim has been to see the children at play and connect with them so that I am not an unknown face in September, and they are not unknown to me.  In conversation, and through observation, I have seen and heard about their interests, siblings and weekends; the patterns they have been creating; the diaries being made; the magic bubbles of the soapy water and the friends they have.  In their learning space, I have had chance to speak to the current teachers and assistants to learn a little more about each child's personality, language profile, approach to learning and family.  One child is fascinated by numbers. At first, he was reluctant to engage with me. Then I took my iPhone and showed him the calculator. He declined to take it. I...

I have toyed with the idea of a blog for a while. The plan with Ruby Tuesday is to offer what some may perceive as a gem each and every Tuesday as I embark on a new learning journey, sharing some of my adventures and insights along the way.  Let's go back to last Tuesday!  I found out I was successful in my application to lead the Early Learners and Kindergarten team at my school next year, and teach Kindergarten for the first time!  Let's just say my mind is alive with ideas! I have been thinking about the big picture of play, different types of play in action and the notion of being 'playful'. I have started to think about the materials that will transform a classroom into an engaging learning space that promotes play and provokes curiosity. I have reached out to wise and inspirational educators I respect that have years of experience in early childhood.  I am conscious of ensuring uninterrupted time for play both indoors and out. Looking at units of inquiry, I hav...