CARE IS A PARTNERSHIP

We all know that care is at the heart of what we do, but have you ever stopped to wonder who that care actually belongs to? In her book Illuminating Care, author Carol Garboden Murray offers a different lens: care isn't something we do for children, it's something we build with them, and with the families who trust us with their care in the first place. She describes this kind of care as a conversation. It is one where we see the child as whole and capable, and where caring means really listening, observing, and responding with respect. It's not something we can do on autopilot. Instead it asks for our full attention and our willingness to be surprised, curious, and delighted, right alongside the children and families we work with. This month, we're exploring this idea—care as a partnership—and what it might mean to invite everyone in our classroom community into the work of caring together. 

THE SEVEN LAMPS OF CARE

Care is education. Care is a right. Care is a partnership. 

As a partnership, care is practiced as a conversation--a reciprocal exchange. We cannot force a child to sleep, eat, or eliminate. We do not impose our direction on another. Care conversations require a dialogue of listening, responsiveness, and boundaries. Even as adults serve as leaders, and guides, partnership means we do so with the attitude of “I am on your side”.

Care is bodily. Care is an art. Care is a science. Care is what makes us human. 

Humans are always caring or being cared for through the arc of life from birth to death. Needing care is a defining quality of our humanness. As we care with excellence, model care , and shape a care curriculum, we begin to see that care is everywhere. Care spreads to all our relationships beyond the classroom, to the community, and the planet. When we truly embrace the power of care, we develop a deeper understanding of the regenerative power of care, and understand self-care in a new way. 

DIGGING DEEPER

Respect: Every family has a story and deserves to feel seen, heard, and valued. When we respect each person’s experiences, we build stronger relationships and create a sense of belonging, safety, and connection.

Reflect: How do my daily actions show families and colleagues that I’m curious about and value who they are? How can I be more intentional in building relationships beyond their role as a parent, caregiver, or colleague? 

Relate:  Show curiosity and connect with children throughout the day.  Make intentional points of contact with families—greet them by name, share a highlight, or ask about their day. Celebrate small wins with families and colleagues. Build trust by seeking to understand each child, family, and colleague.