Revisiting Adult Work in Early Childhood Settings: Shifting the Frame

Abstract

Work in early childhood settings is changing. There are pressures exerted by external forces related to shifts in the socio-political context, but there are also shifts related to reconceptualising the work itself Starting with a reference to the influence of ‘fractured time’, this article revisits the fundamental importance of the concept of the child held by staff as they conceptualise their work. Possibilities include images of the ‘natural’ or romanticised child as well as the objectified and scientifically observed child.

A proposal is put forward for staff to ‘shift the frame of perspectives on the nature of ‘early childhood work’. This possibility centralises the importance of authentic interactions, in contexts that both nurture and challenge children and adults. It then explores the potential for conceptualising these interactions as taking place in welcoming spaces, where staff are insightful about possibilities for promoting engagement in experiences that offer multiple opportunities including cognitive and creative depth. It offers opportunities for conversations about these important and potentially empowering ideas.

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Earlier versions of this paper appeared in the keynote address to the TAFE Children's Services conference, Penrith, NSW (May, 2000) and the keynote address to Crèche and Kindergarten Association conference, Brisbane, Queensland (July, 2000). I thank both organisations for the opportunity to develop these ideas for those occasions.