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 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:
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The learning environmentInterest in and observation of childrenExploration with open – ended materialsAtelier and art projectsVoices of children
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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 the Vice President of AECED National. In this role I support AECED in advocacy for child’s right, capacity building of early childhood professionals, collaborations with international universities and organising National Conferences, webinars / seminars. I represent AECED National in various consultative committees like TISS, UNICEF, MSPCR etc.