Talia’s “Real” Voice

Happy New Year! It’s 2016!

It’s the beginning of my fifth year as the Buddings managing administrator, newsletter editor, etc., and with Sarah’s help with on the management side, and a veteran roster of educators covering the floor, this winter, I finally get a chance to teach a Big Kids Club class.

I’m very excited because while working with these amazing teachers, and watching them create explorations that inspire curiosity, and engender sustained interest – that blossoms into learning, I’ve been jealous of the experiences they’ve shared with the kids. I’ve been part of the planning, and the reporting, but never part of the program. Over a 12-week season, the layers add up, and the kids’ stories become rich, and full. It’s magical. What goes on behind that curtain?

What I do know, is that Denet, and Sarah, and Sara, created my favourite Big Kids Club season last Fall. The kids totally embraced their ideas for Polly the Fairy, Pig World, and the Colour Wheel, and the season’s adventures took off from there.

This season, I want in.

You may know me as the website writer, and marketing manager (or, you may not know me at all. That’s okay. Nice to meet you.), but this is also a bit of a chance to speak with a “real” voice.

Big Kids Club is about discovery, and I want my classes to be super engaging. I’m taking the Nature Club for a spin, and looking at animals (and plants) in winter. After seeing so many teachers float (and sink) BKC topics, or lose the kids’ (and their own) interest half-way through, I know for a fact, there’s no way to fail with Animals.

And I’ve got a secret ally…

My first ever Big Kids Club season (Winter 2016) runs from Jan. 11 – Apr. 1, from 1 – 4pm everyday.

Sarah’s the manager now, so she’s making the schedules (thank god), but I asked to have Nature Club be on Mondays… I assume that means it will be on Monday, but the official schedule will be announced on Wednesday – in the newsletter. 🙂