It doesn’t happen often,but for the days that all of the children are resting at once, it’s worth making a professional development binder with articles and resources that you would like to spend time thinking about but are not urgent.
Your professional development binder can be used for you and your staff members as you find information that’s relevant. It may be worthwhile to also include some blank pages after each article to use for your or your staff reflection or communication.
Materials:
You don’t need much to get started, just access to a printer and a three-ring binder, and pencils or highlighters for your own notes. Alternatively, you can create a shared digital document using Google Drive (free!) or any other internet-enabled word processing software.
Be sure you’re getting staff buy-in by providing articles on topics they’ve expressed interest in and invite them to add resources as well.
Of course, Town Square articles are here to support you, but here are some more great resources:
Playvolution HQ | Creating & Curating Early Learning Resources
Everyday Education – National CACFP Sponsors Association (resources for food allergies, nutrition and safety!)
Be a critical consumer:
When you read, ask yourself the following questions:
- What do I agree with?
- What doesn’t sit right with me?
- How is this similar to what I’m already doing?
- How is this different from what I’m already doing?
- How can I apply this to a specific child?
- Would this be a good resource to share with families?
