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If you stop to define words such as waterspout, you also will be using the song as a tool for developing vocabulary.

The challenge

All caregivers and teachers of young children face the same challenge �" finding strategies that will lead to a more purposeful learning experience for children. All are striving to become intentional teachers and caregivers. Here are three suggestions for moving toward more purposeful care:

• Think of desired outcomes as you plan and move through daily routines. This will automatically lead you in a more purposeful and intentional direction.

• Strengthen your knowledge of the research that supports early development. You will become more effective in selecting outcomes that are beneficial.

• Remember that teaching is as much about following as it is about leading. Teachers who are keen observers of children learn as much from the children as the children learn from them.

Ann Epstein, author of The Intentional Teacher (2007), says that “the quality of learning rarely exceeds the quality of teaching.” Every child has a right to a quality learning experience. Are you a quality caregiver? Do you provide purposeful care?

Bibliography

Epstein, A. (2007). The Intentional Teacher. Washington, DC: National Association for the Education of Young Children.

Ramey, C. T., & Ramey, S. L. (1999). Right from birth: Building your child’s foundation for life �" birth to 18 months. New York: Goddard Press.

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