Illuminating Care: The Pedagogy and Practice of Care in Early Childhood Communities is a powerful exploration of caregiving as a vital component of education and child development and a crucial building block of human community and society.
Carol Garboden Murray meaningfully invites educators, parents and caregivers to experience the essential strength and value of their care for young children, the artistry and integrity of it, in the routines of daily life.
Developing a culture of caring and incorporating care into intentional reflective practice both relieves and elevates the experience of teaching. The daily rituals of each child, and children's interactions with one another, provide natural opportunities to celebrate care and build health, connection, independence, and community.
I have been an infant/toddler teacher for over 25 years. This is the first professional book that I have read that centers the care part of my work. I wish I had had a book like this, or a class that even mentioned the importance of care and connection and relationship early in my career! Thank you Carol Garboden Murray for writing this book!