Module 3: Living Inquiries – Well-Being and Belonging
Every Child is a Gift
Every child can contribute their gifts in relationship with adults and other children.
Critically Reflective Questions
- How can each child contribute their gifts in relationship with adults and other children?
- Consider routines, schedules, or traditions. How do rhythms and flows of the day invite children to participate in the program that support and honour their individuality and learning styles?
- How might children and adults seek to know one another’s gifts?
- How do I identify and name the distinct qualities that I recognize in each child?
- How do I create time and space to co-construct knowledge alongside each child?
- What could I do to contribute to a child’s sense of pride in their gifts?
Case Study: Every child is a gift
A group of preschool children explored a nearby woodland, the “magical forest.” The children engaged in exploring natural materials in the forest, and made discoveries about bugs, sticks, trees, waterways, and hollows of trees. One educator asked the children, “What gifts do the trees bring to the world? How are trees important?” The children discussed their theories and ideas. One child said, “The trees give homes to the birds!” The educator built on this inquiry and then asked, “What special gift do you bring to the world?” Each child was able to record their thoughts through artwork and share with the group and their families.
Reflective Questions
How might you encourage children and adults to explore each other’s gifts? To co-create knowledge? To contribute to a child’s sense of pride in their gifts?
How might children and adults seek to know one another’s gifts?
