How can hands-on, experiential learning ignite children's innate curiosity about math and the world around them?

In this insightful episode, Mary Ryan, the recently retired director of early childhood education for Alvord Unified School District, shares her trailblazing approach to bringing joyful, activity-based math instruction into classrooms.

Mary traces her path from an early childhood declaration that she would become a teacher through a series of formative experiences like babysitting, working at a domestic violence shelter, and an unexpected stint as a teenage dental assistant.

The conversation dives into Mary's pioneering hands-on teaching philosophy that rebuffed traditional rote instruction. She provides vivid examples of engaging children through manipulatives, games, and activities that allowed them to organically discover and question math concepts.

Mary also opens up about her own journey of vulnerability - turning to therapy to process personal challenges and developing strategies to facilitate open discussions with her sons as they grew older. These experiences informed her passionate belief that creating space for kids' thoughts and perspectives is vital for their growth.

As a long-tenured district administrator, Mary shares creative ways she stretched budgets and navigated regulations to invest in professional development opportunities that aligned with her student-centered vision. She also provides a candid perspective on the difficult personnel decisions involved in ensuring teachers truly serve students' needs.

Looking ahead, Mary offers her insights on the future of early childhood education, including reduced student-teacher ratios, increased focus on brain development's insights, and the evolution of transitional kindergarten towards a more exploratory, preschool-like model.

Resources that informed Mary's innovative approach:

• Pivotal early personal experiences introducing the joy of teaching

• Parenting books and radio shows that facilitated discussions with her sons

• Supportive mentors who guided her transition into new district roles

Don't miss this inspiring discussion with an educator who revolutionized how curiosity, play and questioning can enhance math instruction and nurture lifelong learners.

References: 

Anthony Codispoti, AddBack Benefits Agency

https://www.addbackbenefitsagency.com/

Transcript | Making Math Engaging: How Mary Ryan Brought Experiential Learning to Students

Youtube - Inspired Stories Podcast by AddBack BenefitsAgency

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