“contemporary research confirms the view that young children learn most effectively when they are engaged in interaction rather than in merely receptive or passive activities."
-Lilian G. Katz

I could not agree more with this quote as educators the largest impacts we make on children are when we do not realize learning is taking place. Interaction and conversation are the core to true learning. While conversation and interaction trust then is built and in turn positive relationships.

The Richard W. Riley College of Education and Leadership fosters a dynamic and diverse network of educational leaders who seek to support learners globally by leveraging the power of teaching and technology and who are committed to the pursuit of positive social change through education.
-Richard W. Riley
(https://www.waldenu.edu/colleges-schools/riley-college-of-education/about/richard-w-riley)

This quote brings my ideas of what educators as a whole should strive for. We should strive for social change and remember this as we interact with the children and families in our care each day.

This is a picture of my mom and dad. They are the most influential people in my life. The guidance and love they have given me over the years make me who I am today.

My grandpa was another person who still today, even though he passed away about 10 years ago, he always told us "I'm going to need a new shirt my buttons are bursting with pride" each time that we did something well. He would make his voice boom and stick out his chest. We heard it almost daily, yet each time was special. I have passed this saying on to my own children and love seeing them beam as I did when he would say it to me years ago.

"All kids need is a little help, a little hope, and someone who believes in them." 

-Magic Johnson

This is a simple yet inspiring quote summing up what I strive to be for each child in my care. Allowing them to know I am there and believe in them is very important to me. 

My favorite book is Caps For Sale: A Tale of a Peddler, Some Monkeys and their Monkey Business By Esphyr Slobodkina. I have always enjoyed this book. It allows for the reader to capture the audience by using the emotion and frustrations of the peddler as the monkeys "monkey" around. Being able to read the book aloud to the group stomping your feet and shaking your fist is the greatest feeling to see the children enjoy and dive into the book with you. The story also allows for conversation about life and making it through challenges, especially unforeseen ones. In the end when the peddler concurs the monkeys  and life moves on. He continues to stack his hat and move forward. The struggles in the book prove one can get through any struggle should you move forward and remain persistent.