Projects Are Spun From Authentic Inquiry

Suitable for all early learning professionals and parents.

Presenter: Caren Eigenmann and Sue Woodward

Would you like to learn more about Inquiry Based Learning? In this workshop we will take a deep dive into projects that were ignited by the curiosities of children which ignited long term investigations. Whether you refer to it as Responsive, Emergent Curriculum or Inquiry Based Learning, join us to discover how authentic inquiry has potential to evolve into a long term projects.

Goal: Demonstrate the multiple ways children learn when their interests are sparked from their authentic inquiries.

Sue Woodward and Caren Eigenmann are the co-owners of Childgarden Preschool & Discoveries in Port Moody, BC, which opened in 2007. Our image of the child aligns with one of the underlying principles of Reggio Emilia, in which we see the child as 'rich in potential, strong, powerful, competent, and most of all connected to adults and other children' (Malaguzzi, 1993, p. 10). Educators work alongside the children and their natural curiosity to observe and develop in-depth investigations that reflect and are built upon authentic interests of the children, making their preschool experience fun, exciting and relevant to them and their world. Educators extend and expand these interests to create deep, meaningful learning opportunities which lay the foundation for future learning.

Both Sue and Caren are recipients of the Prime Minister's Award of Excellence in Early Childhood Education, in 2012 and 2017 respectively.