This past weekend I attended the Cincinnati AEYC conference. I attended two workshops; one was about Algebra and Geometry, while the other was about Enhancing Spirituality Through Literature with Leslie Roth. I found the latter to be particularly powerful, as I seldom considered spirituality to be a part of my classroom.
Sure, we all have a spirit. It's who we really are and drives our passions, but is it appropriate to talk about or use spirituality in a secular classroom? It turns out that I already have been.
Every time I read certain books in my classroom, I get a gentle, relaxed reaction from my students. Certain books, such as "The Runaway Bunny" or "Good Night Moon" (both by Margaret Wise Brown) are almost guaranteed this response. I thought that these were just pleasant pieces of literature, but there is more to this. These books, and others, help my students connect to something special inside themselves that allows them to understand themselves and others. As an adult who utilizes literature for this very reason, I should have realized the remarkable effect that it would also have on young children. It is definitely something to consider when choosing reading materials for my preschoolers. These books aren't merely delightful, they are broadening understanding and hope.
No comments:
Post a Comment