This week I have been in Burlington Vermont,(in the middle of New England!) at the University of VT (ww.uvm.edu) for the CAJE conference. This annual conference (www.caje.org) brings together 1500 Jewish educators from all over North America, with spatterings from around the world. The early childhood educators make up over 200 of the participants. That means I met lots of really great people, and we will be seeing new people on this blog! Yay!
So, for my friends who didn't come to CAJE, let me share some of the highlights.
1. There were sessions that demystified the Reggio Emilia approach, Montessori Method and High Scope Curriculum. The presenters were knowledgeable, upbeat, approachable and easy to talk with!
2. I listened to Meir Muller, my new best friend, as he clearly explained how children take in information and concretize what they learn. This guy GETS young children and has such a great way of teaching.
3. The ECE Reflections gave us a chance to discuss the challenge of separating your work life in the shul with your spiritual life in the shul. We talked about interfaith staff and issues surrounding that. We discussed so many timely topics that directors and teachers have.
4. What can I say about Lyndall's session? Should I talk about her fascination with questions? Did you know there were so many types of questions? Did you ever wonder if the questions you ask the children are even appropriate? Do you wish you were in this session??
5. The PEOPLE of the college were the nicest people! Always smiling! I got lost once (OK, not a surprise) and this wonderful student actually walked me the to correct exit and pointed me in the direction I needed to go! Then one time my cell wasnt getting any reception, and i walked out of a session to get a better reception outside. A staff member saw me and just simply offered his phone to me, explaining how his local company has much better service.
6. Food...hmmm... The hot food was primarily white, but the salad bar was always fresh and delicious. Think about it - Pasta, Rice, Potatoes and Fish are all white! Now the VEGGIES stirred into these foods were from local farms, and really yummy!
There were so many great topics and such wonderful speakers. The evening activities were...aw heck, full disclosure: Monday night we went to a drive in theater to see Mamma Mia! Not a CAJE sponsored activity, but way cool nonetheless! But Tuesday night I went to what could be described as a Jewish revival. Great stories, wonderful music, and lots of people enjoying each others' company. I even made friends with 2 people from Baton Rouge! Hi Sue! Hi Jessica!
Tonight I hit the hot tub and relaxed. Leora and I are leaving early in the morning for our 9 hour trek home. My 7 day road trip is coming to an end....I can't wait to see my family and my dog tomorrow night! I'll be home soon, Sheba - arf arf!
