Respecting the Wisdom of Children

Ruth Wilson, writing in the book Art of Leadership: Cultivating an Early Childhood Curriculum, encourages educators to recognize and respect the wisdom of children. One way to do this, she writes, is to ask “wondering questions.” As she explains:

“Wondering questions can be used to stimulate reflection and sharing related to many different topics and experiences…For example, on Valentine’s Day in the midst of sharing ‘love notes,’ one teacher invited reflection and sharing by saying, ‘I wonder what love really is.’ The children’s responses were amazing. According to one child, love is when Grandpa rubs Grandma’s feet – even when his fingers hurt. Another child suggested that love is when you share something that you really want to keep. It’s important to recognize that ‘wondering’ questions should come from the children, as well as from the teacher. Keep in mind, as well, that ‘wondering’ questions don’t always require an answer. Wisdom, in both children and adults – is often expressed as much in the questions as in the answers.”

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