Mindfulness and Purpose in Early Childhood Education

                                             Since 2013, this little blog has been my space to share ideas, reflections, and encouragement for those just starting out in early childhood education. My focus has always been on supporting new ECEs and students, and weaving mindfulness into the work we do with children. After more than a decade of writing, I feel like I’m all blogged out! While I won’t be posting new material here, the blog will remain available for you to read and revisit anytime. You’re welcome to keep exploring the posts, and you can also find more on my landing pages: Mindfulness in ECE and English for ECEs . I’m still very much involved in the field—I continue to teach ECE and English classes at my local college, and I also do consulting work. It’s been such a joy to connect through this blog, and I’m grateful for everyone who has read along over the y...

  WAYS TO PROTECT YOUR PEACE THIS HOLIDAY SEASON FOREST BATHING Developed in Japan during the 1980s, forest bathing, forest therapy (or shinrin-yoku) broadly means taking in, using all of one’s senses within the forest atmosphere. It is not simply a walk in the woods, it is the conscious and contemplative practice of being immersed in the sights, sounds, and smells of the forest. Think of it like a calming meditation that helps you appreciate the calm beauty of your surroundings that allows you to relax and reflect while improving your focus in a soothing setting. Leave your electronics or any other distractions behind, so you can be fully present to wander aimlessly and allow your body to take you wherever it wants to. Pause from time to time, to look more closely at a leaf or notice the sensation of the path beneath your feet. Walk slowly and stop often. Find a comfortable spot to take a seat and listen to the sounds around you.   SLOW LIVING Slow living is mak...