The Inspired EC Blog

  She found the terracotta pipes and began to build. Lining them up, end to end, it was clear that she had a very specific vision for her play/creation. She worked on her own for a long time, testing ideas and theories. Suddenly, another child arrived and started to touch the pipes. “NOOOOOOO!” She shrieked. “That’s mine!”  So, the details of the scenario might be different, but chances are, you have experienced something similar in your service or home. It’s a really tricky situation! Our “educator voice” may be saying “it’s nice to share” or “why can’t he have these...

Carlie is three years old and running through the playground. She trips on a truck and falls hard on the ground. Carlie begins to cry - loud. An educator scoops Carlie up in a big hug and says "you're okay, it's just a graze. Let's get you a bandaid."  Is Carlie really okay?  Does the educator really believe that she is okay?  What is the intention in telling her that she is okay?    The lies we tell children Earlier this week, I asked our team for some of the best "lies" that they have either said (hey - none...

  {I originally wrote this post in 2019, and have updated, although the story remains the same}   My middle child had just started school. For the first time ever my youngest was now at home with just me (in addition to a day with Nan and a day at preschool) In the weeks and months leading up to it, I had been simultaneously looking forward to and dreading it. You see, my youngest was a firecracker. She is (and still is) hilariously funny, incredibly inquisitive and extremely loving. She also hasd those traits that are often seen as negatives...

Three parents stood at the playground while their children played together in the garden. As they watched them play, their conversation turned to starting school. Discussing their plans for their children, it was easy for them to fall into the trap of comparing. 

  ** This post was originally written in 2019 and has been updated and resposted ** Two boys arrive at our TimberNook program full of stories of online gaming – stories that seem somewhat older than their 8-9 years. They argue (playfully) about who does what in Fortnite and how to get through certain challenges  or something to that effect (let’s be honest – I have no idea what Fortnite is all about!) As we settle into the morning, the group of children disperse on our bushland site and begin working on cubbies and hanging out on the tyre swing....