Early Childhood Gathering

 A space for the voice of the child to be heard, understood and appreciated. As a group, the children stand alongside each other as their voices come together to sing in harmony or chant rhythmically. Individually, the child stands in the center of our community circle, confidently holding onto the microphone as their voice resonates back to them. The child speaks spontaneously, occasionally pausing, needing a breath or a prompting question from a supportive adult. Sometimes the message is brief, often it generates points of connection from the surrounding circle, and it is always genuine and reflective of the child’s priorities. This is the beginning of the child’s knowledge of their own voice, how their words convey a message and how that message can have meaningful connection to others. It is the powerful recognition of how their voices can come together to make music and how their voices can stand alone and inspire others. There is room for both in this safe, accepting, welcoming circle. These moments are the foundation for the thread of public speaking opportunities that weave their way through the fabric of the Country School experience.