EarlyON Muskoka July 2021 Newsletter

WELCOME

The Perspective from Here

Walking my dog Bella, I tug on her leash, but she is stubborn and holds firm at her spot.

What does she smell or hear that drives her to stay here? Her senses so acute, she is determined to locate something. I try to hone my own senses, nothing compared to her sense of smell and sound though. In giving her time to explore, I get curious with my surroundings, noticing the bird songs, watching the way the wind blows through the leaves as the sun sets. I also notice the leaves on the ground, many half-eaten by very hungry caterpillars!

Bella has reminded me to stop, be present and get curious, something that our children remind us of every day as they explore their world. What has them so intrigued by that spoon or ball? They do not see things the way we do; their minds haven’t been cluttered with labels and objects we view for one purpose only. That spoon is more than just a spoon that scoops up food – so much more in their eyes!

We have a lot to learn from our children, so I invite you to take some time to be present with them, get curious and look at things a little differently.

That’s the perspective from here.

Stay well,

Pam Rennie, BA, BEd, RECE

EVERY CHILD MATTERS

We know that every child matters, but beyond these words we have a commitment to do better and to teach better.

EarlyON is striving to become more informed of our history and create an environment that is representative, supportive and welcoming to everyone. We are going through the process of unlearning, learning and relearning and we hope you join us in this growth.

If you have stories to share or ideas to support our growth, please connect with us earlyon@muskoka.on.ca

It Takes A Village

As educators, we are constant learners, but I believe this is true for humans of any age. We are all striving to know more and understand our world, and sharing together allows us all to grow. As the saying goes, "it takes a village".

In a recent team discussion of what we most remember about childhood, it was pretty much unanimous - the freedom of playing outside! We all shared stories of hanging out in the ditch, building forts and creating imaginary games. We found John Dewey's quote (below) to hold true for us. Yes, a few did have a favourite toy that they recalled, but for the most part, joy was found in exploring the world around us.

In a blog by Teacher Tom, he quotes John Dewey's view on toys, "Education is not preparation for life; education is life itself." Children are not born craving toys or other abstractions. No, they are born with the natural urge to engage in the real world they find around them. It is how they "take ownership of their lives." Read more of Teacher Tom's blog here.

What are your thoughts?

EarlyON would like to share the conversations we have been having. Let us know of a discussion you would like to have with us at earlyon@muskoka.on.ca.

In-person Programs

We are looking forward to seeing you again so please stay connected to our Facebook page for in-person programming announcements later this month. We hope to be offering some Baby Talks and circles outside with you!

The Muskoka Home Child Care Agency is Recruiting Providers!

Are you interested in working with children while operating your own business from home? Would you like to earn a competitive wage, have a flexible schedule, and join a community of home child care providers delivering quality care to children across Muskoka?

If so, the Muskoka Home Child Care Agency (MHCCA) wants to hear from you!

Registration to become a provider is Free and start-up costs like C.P.R. and First Aid certification are reimbursed!

Learn more about this exciting opportunity on our website: www.muskoka.on.ca/mhcca

EarlyON Registration

Although our programs remain free, registration is now required to ensure everyone’s safety. Please visit our website to complete the one time Participation form. You will then receive a family code to use for all future registrations for our programs.