Supporting Caring Environments for Children...Here and in Japan

When I created this blog, one of my goals was to document and share the evolution of our curriculum by focusing on the environment. I decided to use photos that focused specifically on the physical classroom environment, rather than the children not only as a way to respect the children's online privacy, but to put the focus on how a well thought out, dynamic space can support children's physical, cognitive, social, and emotional development.
Upon hearing about the devastating earthquake and subsequent tsunami in Japan, my thoughts went immediately to all of the parents and children who were affected by this catastrophe. I'm sure many of you did the same thing.
As a parent and teacher of young children, I appreciate that the day to day, moment to moment demands of life with children are as relentless as they are rewarding. As parents, we are driven to meet our children's needs, even if the world is falling apart around us. Children need comfort, care, stability, and time and space for joy. Providing all of these constantly can be stressful under the best of circumstances. When I think of the parents in Japan, who are trying to care for their children in an environment that is in shambles...I do not have the words. Truly, my heart breaks for them.
Save the Children is a reputable, international organization with a team on the ground in Sendai, Japan. According to a March 13th press release , one of their immediate goals is "to set up a network of child-friendly spaces aimed to provide children in shelters with a safe place to play, and to give parents a break from watching their children while they register for emergency assistance."
Given the focus on creating and celebrating supportive environments for children, this blog seems like an appropriate space to share this information. Please consider visiting Save the Children's website to learn more about their relief efforts, and, if you are able to, please consider making a donation to support their work in Japan.