I often reflect upon how privileged I feel to be given the opportunity to see the world through the eyes of our youngest citizens. I see myself not just as a teacher and kaiako, but also an explorer, investigator, scientist and co-learner. To me this is highlighted when I walk through the doors of our infant and toddler spaces. Its magic! Plain and simple, it’s pure magic when you are given the opportunity to be present within these learning spaces. There is always something new to discover, and until the child shows us we never knew it existed. It could be as simple as exploring a log in the garden and feeling the wind pass through our hair. Or peering through a gate to see what is on the other side.
As an infant and toddler teacher I actively observe, wait and be present with the children. I see our youngest children as story tellers through their various forms of communication – verbal, body language, non-verbal ques and gestures are a small part of how our children share their world with us. It is my role as their kaiako to listen and observe. In order to do this I must slow down, pay attention and be prepared to wait for the child to let me into their world.
‘As children observe, reflect, record, and share nature’s patterns and rhythms, they are participating in a process that promotes scientific and ecological awareness, problem-solving, and creativity.’
Deb Matthews Hensley.
Being intentional and respectful is key to allowing infants to let me into their world, I must get down to their level and see it through their eyes. When sharing the same perspective, I have the ability to become a co-researcher with them. I listen and read their non-verbal cues and gestures. A simple smile, wave of the hand or tilt of the head communicates more than words. I have the privilege to see the world again for the first time and this is something that I will never take for granted. When observing our infants I get the opportunity to understand their discoveries as they are introduced to experiences for the first time.
When jumping with two feet into the world of our toddlers I am prepared and willing to actively listen to their needs and wants. I walk alongside our young children as they explore, challenge and discover the world around them. Toddlers have a unique ability to find the smallest parts and objects of our world and want to share this with those they trust. The pure joy and excitement you see from a child when you provide an open palm for them to place an object in, in my eyes cannot be beaten – magic!
To be given the privilege of engaging in an experience with a toddler, hearing their squeals and witnessing their pointing is truly magic.
An infant and toddler teacher is kind, caring, compassionate, but they are also inquisitive themselves. They develop a new sense of wonder for the world around them and have the opportunity to create new knowledge. In a busy world that is constantly changing and challenging us as humans, it is important to stop and be with our children. They are the future of our world and we want to protect and celebrate their perspective and voice.
“A teacher takes a hand, opens a mind and touches a heart.”
– Loris Malaguzzi.
Written by Frances Cornwall, Bear Park Kohimarama.
If you’re interested in booking a tour to visit Bear Park, we’d love to show you around. Head to Book a Tour to organise a booking.
