A Credo
We do the most important work.
• We believe in the child and the family unconditionally.
• We treat the child as an achiever.
• We are the cheering squad for the child and the parents.
• We applaud their successes, urge them to take risks, and turn their setbacks into new challenges.
• We are nurturers, not smotherers.
• We encourage learning that promotes questioning, curiosity and self-discovery.
• We adore them so they will believe in their special ness.
• We are more ready to compliment than criticize, to praise than berate, to encourage than insult.
• We believe that in each moment lies the possibility and potential for making each child feel better about him/herself and walk with their head high.
• We honor each of our roles in the partnership of caring for children.
• We enable others to excel.
• Who we are with each other is an example of who we will be with the children.
• We will not confuse power and control with discipline and learning.
• We will be clear about what we ask of children. Is it for their benefit or ours?
• We will require excellence of ourselves, avoid mediocrity, and strive for compassion and humanness.
• We will sustain a sense of hopefulness and optimism, keeping alive wonder, freshness and good humor.
-Ethel Seiderman, Circa 1986