On the shoulders of giants

Another Early Years conference attended on Friday in London. G and I were amongst the very small handful of males as usual. It was an inspiring day, a great opportunity away from work to reflect on what we do against the backdrop of  inspirational and informative presentations. Professor Trevelyn was thought provoking, as usual.

I was particularly struck by the Children’s Society Good Childhood report findings –

how we do it – the good childhood inquiry

which contains such a vast amount of common sense and acts as a challenge to us to do our bit.

I also enjoyed the lady from Hammersmith who obviously enjoys the company of boys, their obsessions with spiderman, monsters and daleks and takes them camping and lets them light fires ! fantastic!!

The afternoon was a bit depressing, reviewing the current uncertainty, talking about what needs to be done and reasons why it probably won’t – mainly financial. But we mustn’t be downhearted. If we are to stand on the shoulders of the giants of the past who formulated child development theories and good practice, we need to keep doing our best for the children and families we currently serve.

Back into nursery tomorrow. I’m looking forward to spending some time with children again.