Dear Readers,
Thank you for supporting the Heart and Art of Teaching and Learning by reading, sharing and commenting. After several years of contributing to the blog, this is a new moment for another member to have the opportunity to learn and grow as a teacher and writer. This is my final blog.
The challenge of blog writing is very similar to growing a garden and I hope the seeds I have planted will continue to blossom over the years. If you found some useful teaching tips in my blogs, please share so that the growth can continue!
The garden metaphor also applies to teaching as our students realize that growth requires patience, care, and resilience. As children learn a new concept or skill they will need a safe and nurturing space for it to become a deeper level of understanding, one that stays with them. Similarly, the water, soil, compost, sunlight and temperature will impact how well a plant can thrive. I am sure that if you are reading this blog you are constantly reflecting on your own practice and exploring ways to grow professionally in order to benefit your students.
One of the biggest influences on my teaching career has been the Every Child Matters movement and hearing the truth about residential schools. Keeping in mind that I am a guest on Turtle Island as a first generation Scots/Irish-Canadian, I have written about my role as an ally to Indigenous Peoples and promoted Indigenous authors. The teachings I have had from people who are First Nations, Métis and Inuit are close to my heart. I am building a stronger relationship with the land and a better understanding of all our relatives. When I say relatives I am including the soil, rocks, plants, swimmers, crawlers, walkers, and flyers. Every day I am grateful to the water, the air, the sun and the Earth for all the gifts they share. I find it reassuring to see changes in schools as Indigenous teachings are being applied and supported. It is my hope that we can move together on a path of reconciliation and have a brighter future.
In the garden I have plants that thrive when there are a variety of species planted together. They are more successful when integrated then if they were segregated into separate growing areas. I hope my blogs encourage teachers to read a great variety of books to their students. I hope those books then launch into experiential learning experiences that include the arts, making learning more meaningful. Igniting student curiosity and giving purposeful tasks often have the greatest success!
The Heart and Art of Teaching and Learning has reinforced my belief that effective teaching is both intentional and relational. It is about creating conditions where students feel safe to explore, create, and grow. It is about listening carefully and adapting thoughtfully. Like any garden, teaching requires ongoing care and attention. The rewards, however, are extraordinary. Every season brings new possibilities, and every learner has the potential to flourish when given the right conditions to grow.
Big Thanks to All!
Brenda
