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)

Learn why school readiness is child's play through research and stories for supporting development with fun activities. Discover why playing is school readiness with this updated guide. Timely research and new stories highlight how play is vital to the social, physical, cognitive, and spiritual development of children. Learn the seven meaningful experiences we should provide children with every day and why they are so important.

This is the story of Daniel--our adopted son from China. He traveled across the world to experience the love of a family, and ultimately touched thousands of lives when his mission on earth ended earlier than we'd planned, and he left us for Heaven. This is not just the story of a child who died, but rather a tribute to a little boy who really, honestly lived. Yes, it's true that, ultimately, we lost our son. But we know how blessed we were to have met him, loved him, and to have been given the gift of time with his sweet soul. We know that God is good, and though our pain and suffering are sure, the reality remains that Daniel is safe in the arms of our Lord. How blessed we are that--even though it was for such a short time--God entrusted us as Daniel's loving family before He called our son Home to Heaven.