My frequent visits to Eton House in Singapore – became a great source of inspiration and influence. My interactions there with stalwarts in early childhood education brought about a new chain of thought, regarding a transformation of the preschool landscape in India.
The early childhood ecosystem and how different elements connect to offer an overall holistic experience got me thinking about ideas like:
-
The learning environmentInterest in and observation of childrenExploration with open – ended materialsAtelier and art projectsVoices of children
-
Use of technologyDocumentation of learning journeysConnecting with parents and familiesPedagogical mentoring of teachersScaffolding of learning
I started reading up about Loris Malaguzzi and his work in setting up the Reggio Schools in Italy. The Book Hundred Languages of Children - the Reggio Emilia Approach By Edward Gandini Forman became a sort of bible.
And so in 2011 after a long work stint in corporate and educational institutes - Inspired Learning was created to offer support and connect with partners desirous of change.
Over the past decade I have been lucky to work in diverse settings of urban as well as rural areas, startups and school improvement programs. Daycares and afterschool set ups. Plus, a domain that I am super passionate about – Offering a Diploma in Early Childhood Development for future teachers.
I am also associated with AECED – being the Hon Secretary of the organization for the past six years. My work at AECED involves working towards advocacy, capacity building, admin and representing AECED in various consultative committees like TISS, UNICEF and MSPCR and so on.