by Erin | Sep 18, 2018 | connection, feelings, nature connection, reflection, safe spaces, self care
During the aftermath of heartbreaking or traumatic events, while my brain is still trying to heal itself, I often find myself in these slow-Mo moments of peace and serenity…with my houseplants. I notice myself taking extra special care, at snails speed, to bring...
by Erin | Mar 11, 2018 | child-lead, deschooling the adults, meeting needs, play, safe spaces
We’ve been running City School as pop up sessions for families who are curious to check us out. Slowly we’re creating a community of regulars but we still get new families popping in. When adults observe our pop ins and see non stop play, I sometimes...
by Erin | Feb 11, 2018 | attachment, connection, meeting needs, safe spaces
It was our first pop up session at City School on Friday.I was really nervous beforehand and it was a great relief that the day was peaceful and fairly easy to navigate. (The conflicts and arguments will come later when they are more comfortable!) I was feeling that...
by Erin | Sep 15, 2017 | advocacy, anxiety, empathetic response, feelings, power dynamics, safe spaces, self-awareness, self-connection, traditional school
Last night was a beautiful summer evening, so my family and I stayed out enjoying it well after dark. I had the baby and she wanted to look at the blinking lights in the shop windows. Those bright blinking lights are so appealing to babies. There were some loud people...
by Erin | Aug 22, 2017 | acceptance, advocacy, child-lead, feelings, meeting needs, safe spaces, self-connection, trust, youth empowerment
For the past two weeks, I have been spending more time at Learning in the Woods and I have had a unique opportunity to observe more than engage with the children. I found myself thinking, what is it that kids like about Learning in the Woods. Here is what I...
by Erin | Aug 14, 2017 | child-lead, connection, empathetic response, feelings, meeting needs, safe spaces, trust
The first day of camp can be intense for parents, kids, and facilitators. On the first day of camp, more than any other day, facilitators have to be prepared to just go with the flow and slow the pace so they can effectively create a safe space for kids. Ultimately,...
