Lisa Murphy on Being Child Centred

Lisa Murphy on Being Child Centered provides an in-depth exploration of the author’s approach to working with children. Lisa Murphy outlines nine characteristics programs need to build an environment that’s child-centered, where play, developmentally appropriate practice, and academic standards all come together under one roof.

Nine characteristics of a child-centered environment:

• Children are provided long periods of uninterrupted free time to explore their environment
• Children are provided lots of time outdoors
• Children are able to explore the environment with few restrictions
• Adults control the environment, not the children
• Adults serve as facilitators within the space
• Adults articulate the intention behind their words and actions
• Adults are familiar with current research and the key contributions of historical child development theorists
• Adults are aware of the importance of keeping it real
• Children are provided time and opportunity to create, move, sing, discuss, observe, read, and play every day

Using true-to-life examples, anecdotes, and her signature conversational style, this book presents and explores the true identifying characteristics of a hands-on, play-based, child-centered environment.

*Finalist in the Midwest Book Awards 2020 (Education category)