Time Well Spent

The last eight weeks (this course and the end of the program combined) have been rich with insights, challenges, and plans for the future.



Three of the most important learning points that I will take with me on my continued journey are: the value of dissecting our plans and passions into manageable pieces; identifying a community of practice that can support and strengthen our individual work; and the value of appropriate leadership to further a program or cause.


While I still struggle greatly with some of the practical aspects of my goals (mostly the money bit), I know that having a strong knowledge base and ability to research, communicate, and advocate, will be important parts of meeting my goals. As will identifying others who are passionate about these same goals. This stretches my introverted self a bit, but strengthens me and my program as I benefit from the knowledge, experience and resources of those who started before me. And finally, I have a truer appreciation for the role of leadership. I have in the past shied away from this role, however, insights in this course have shown me that leadership is not defined exclusively by the leader, but by the needs and skills of the team. The leader must be responsive to these needs, and work in service of the program and it's people, rather than trying to make the program/team meet the needs of leadership.

I have a couple long term goals that I hope to continue working towards:

• The development of a children's discovery center/play cafe hybrid where children and families can connect meaningfully with each other and the environment to support the social and emotional development of all. 
• The development of an empathy based book series that is choose your own adventure style, encouraging children to practice making prosocial decisions, and developing empathy for others by introducing them to diverse populations and situations. 
• Connecting with local groups that serve children and families in diverse ways in order to strengthen the community of practice that is passionate about children, empathy, and whole child development. 

And finally, I would like to thank Dr Ernst and my peers who have thoughtfully shared their experiences, challenges, goals and passions this term. Without your support, guidance, and facilitation, I would not have a clearer vision of my future and the future of the EC field. Thank you. As an outsider (not a teacher) you all have taught me so much and I am grateful to you all.




I look forward to hear about how your journeys continue, and off my supports at any time. Please feel free to contact me at sarahjmaisey@gmail.com or on facebook at sarahmaisey@yahoo.com (Sarah Maisey).