Elegant and Useful

I've been loving my ECFE class. Sam struggles a bit with the separation and has that post-crying hiccup when I return for circle-time, but I do enjoy my time in the parent room with the other moms (yes, all moms) who have similar questions about sleeping, eating, behavior, and managing family. I'm learning a ton.

The best part, though, is the amazing parent educator. Not only is she smart as heck, but she's also super thoughtful about her pedagogy, which is really important to me. I've been taking mental notes on her teacherly moves to build community, engage everyone in the discussion, connect research to practice, and bring in perspectives that might not otherwise be present at the table.

Last week, for example, when a few moms were talking about the GI bug that had taken over their families (at least we know where we got it), she pointed out that we should be grateful for our washing machines and healthcare at moments like those. So true. And yesterday, when we talked about babies and toddlers as young scientists, she said that children want their theories to be "elegant and useful," and when we simply observe their approach to the world they teach us how to help them explore it.

I always leave with a new perspective on parenting and a new respect for the remarkable little person who lives in our house. I've come to know that parenting requires bravery, but there is joy in even the most difficult of moments. And I'm grateful for the opportunity to be reminded of that each week.