Barbara Langford

Within each child is their own unique timeline for the unfolding of their development. We cannot ‘teach’ children of this age -they are innately driven to experience the world through their own ‘work’. Our role is to observe and ensure that we offer an environment that supports the unfolding of every new experience that the child seeks. Too often educators believe it is their job to keep children busy, active and entertained, often leading them to go home empty of energy and feeling exhausted. Our role is not to direct the learning, it is to support it. We need to take the time to just ‘be’ with the children, to witness the miracle of each new achievement and to be fulfilled by the trust each child places in us to be their guide when they need us. In this workshop, Barbara will remind us of the incredible journey each child takes to achieve their independence. We will practice “observing” a child through a different lens and discuss how we can support and nurture this critical stage of human development.