Readings for reflection

Why the play-based, student-interest initiated program is so important for kindergarten:
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/education/educationnews/9289480/Starting-school-at-seven-can-boost-pupils-reading-skills.html

Nature walks:  how to deal with sticks
http://creativestarlearning.blogspot.co.uk/2011/02/sticks-in-school.html

Another article on the importance of free play:
http://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/freedom-learn/201206/free-play-is-essential-normal-emotional-development

On sharing as a developmental stage:

http://positiveparentingconnection.net/sharing/

What needs to happen before reading and writing:
http://cindyterebush.blogspot.ca/2012/08/before-they-can-read-write.html

A couple of wonderful stories about the empowering effects of allowing children to manage their conflicts.
http://teachertomsblog.blogspot.ca/2012/09/game-over.html
http://teachertomsblog.blogspot.ca/2011/07/thats-hard-thing-to-do-and-he-did-it.html