Helping Children See Themselves

In Really Seeing Children, Deb Curtis writes, "Over the years I’ve cultivated the practice of slowing down and observing closely to see the child’s point of view. I’ve discovered that when I intentionally share the details of what I notice with children, many positive things unfold."

This is evident in Curtis’ documentation, written directly to Charlie:

The table was filled with hundreds of buttons that invited children to immerse themselves in the treasure of exploration and discovery. Charlie, you immediately leaned over the tray of buttons and thoughtfully picked up and studied one button at a time. I wondered what you noticed as you carefully examined each button. You showed remarkable attention to detail as you worked, methodically sorting and classifying the buttons into piles and then creating a design with the buttons based on the attributes you noticed. Though I didn’t hear you speak, I was fascinated by the intensity in your eyes, your facial expressions, and your body language as you worked.

Curtis explains, "I avoid giving directions or asking questions, and instead offer information and descriptions about what I see. There is a shift in my role and I pay closer attention to what comes out of my mouth. As a result, I notice more details and really begin to see children and the complexity of their work. I use words and gestures to reveal to children what I see. I ask the children if I can try out what they are doing and describe my experiences as I work. I also take photos and show children images of what they have done. Through this work together, children build their capacity to initiate and regulate their own ideas and actions."

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