Anyone who has ever worked with toddlers knows this is by far their favorite word! But, toddlers do not like to hear the word no! Have you ever thought about the life of a toddler? Imagine having so little control over your life. Someone is always telling you what to do, where to go, what to wear, when to sleep and eat and play. Is it any wonder that frustrations surface as tantrums, biting, and saying no? From the toddler’s perspective, she wants what she wants when she wants it. It is important to step back and try to see through the eyes of the children you are working with. Imagine being in their bodies, listen with new ears, and walk in their shoes. Do cows bark? Can fish walk? Do you eat worms? Try asking toddlers silly questions so they get lots of opportunities to say no. After all, it is their favorite word.
In loving memory of Gryphon House author Leanne Grace, MEd, we are sharing pieces of her inspirational writing every Wednesday. Leanne was the director of professional development at Hildebrandt Learning Centers and a lifelong advocate for early childhood education. She inspired the early childhood community to prepare children as lifelong learners with her ability to find the extraordinary in the ordinary. One person can make a difference, and Leanne did just that. She will be sorely missed.
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