Intentional Teaching in Early Childhood

“A must-read and excellent educator guide about reflection and relationships. The Thinking Teacher gives teachers multiple, concrete resources and support for how to reflect on the complexities of a teaching life. As the authors state: ‘The changes are not just coming at you; they are happening inside you.’”—Tamar Jacobson, Ph.D., author of Don’t Get So Upset! Help Young Children Manage Their Feelings by Understanding Your Own

“Offers a valuable guide to new and experienced teachers. As they read and do the exercises, early educators will be able to reflect on their practice, their goals, and their career. This book can be used individually or with a study group of colleagues meeting to share their passion for a profession that is as challenging as it is rewarding. In the end, the children will benefit from their intentional teachers.”—Angèle Sancho Passe, early childhood education consultant and author of Evaluating and Supporting Early Childhood Teachers

“A careful, complete approach to continuous development of teachers, by teachers. The book speaks directly to teachers, helping them develop and articulate goals, worries, questions, and areas of change. While it is supportive of teachers at any level, it also challenges them to continue to explore and respond, to recognize areas of conflict or complacency, and to stay in touch with other opinions. A wonderful tone, full of examples, while at the same time demanding, clear, and based on research and experience!”—Cindy Ballenger, teacher-researcher, author of Puzzling Moments, Teachable Moments

“Inquiry and reflection are the key to lifelong professional growth as a teacher. They are especially powerful when integrated with organized structures for ongoing dialogue with other adults. This book offers many reasons, stories, and tools to help early childhood educators seeking to promote intentional teaching for themselves and their colleagues.”—Carolyn Pope Edwards, Cather Professor Emeritus, University of Nebraska-Lincoln

“This book aims to support teachers in driving their own professional development. Useful concepts include: knowing your beliefs and values, understanding stages of teacher development and the change process, integrating new knowledge into practice, and advocating for organizational support. The Thinking Teacher is a valuable resource for developing teacher intentionality, professionalism, and leadership.”—Margie Carter, coauthor of Training Teachers: A Harvest of Theory and Practice; The Visionary Director; and Learning Together with Young Children