A Thinking Protocol for Early Educators

01/19/2022

A Thinking Protocol for Early Educators

Words make you think a thought. Music makes you feel a feeling. A song makes you feel a thought.
E. Y. Harburg quotes (American Lyricist, Librettist and Song Writer, 1896-1981)

Much advice for toddler teachers focuses on how to establish routines, build relationships and observe learning and behavior. In his book, A Can of Worms, Nick Terrones takes it to another level, sharing how he stays on track in the busy, multi-tasking world of a toddler teacher:

"A [thinking] protocol helps me stay in the moment, curious and responsive, rather than reactive and overwhelmed. I want to stay true to my goals for children and myself, goals which are less about content-driven teaching and learning, or focusing on developmental skills, and more about practicing thinking about complex ideas and about becoming comfortable with uncertainty."

Terrones shares the root words that "capture who I want to be as an educator."

Be Curious: What touched my heart? Why am I interested?
Reflect: What do I think was happening for the children in this moment?
Engage and Expand: What other perspectives do I want to consult?
Innovate and Empower: What next steps can I take to support the children’s and my own learning?

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