0 
Sandra Heidemann, Beth Menninga, Claire Cheng
Self-directed professional development helps early childhood teachers define their goals, focusing on their own growth and on children’s success.
This essential professional development resource provides advice for early childhood teachers who are navigating demands and changes in their careers, helping them see these challenges as growth opportunities. Through in-depth self-assessment and reflection, educators re-examine their teaching philosophy, integrate new knowledge and strategies into their practice, and strengthen the impact of their teaching on students.
In the midst of a constantly changing education landscape, educators will learn to teach with intention and rediscover their unique purpose and passion for teaching young children.
Digital content includes customisable forms from the book.
Click the Free Stuff tab to download the free PLC/Book Study Guide for The Thinking Teacher which is designed as a professional development resource and can be used to facilitate a book study or as a learning experience for a professional learning community (PLC). Facilitator notes are provided for additional support and explanation in planning and facilitating your school or group’s sessions.
"Offers a valuable guide to new and experienced teachers. As they read and do the exercises, early educators will be able to reflect on their practice, their goals, and their career. This book can be used individually or with a study group of colleagues meeting to share their passion for a profession that is as challenging as it is rewarding. In the end, the children will benefit from their intentional teachers. "
- Angele Sancho Passe, early childhood education consultant and author of "Evaluating and Supporting Early Childhood Teachers"
"A must read and excellent educator guide about reflection and relationships. "The Thinking Teacher" gives teachers multiple, concrete resources and support for how to reflect on the complexities of a teaching life. As the authors state: The changes are not just coming at you; they are happening inside you."
- Tamar Jacobson, Ph.D., author of "Don t Get So Upset! Help Young Children Manage Their Feelings by Understanding Your Own
"A careful, complete approach to continuous development of teachers, by teachers. The book speaks directly to teachers, helping them develop and articulate goals, worries, questions, and areas of change. While it is supportive of teachers at any level, it also challenges them to continue to explore and respond, to recognize areas of conflict or complacency, and to stay in touch with other opinions. A wonderful tone, full of examples, while at the same time demanding, clear, and based on research and experience!"
- Cindy Ballenger, teacher-researcher, author of Puzzling Moments, Teachable Moments
"Inquiry and reflection are the key to lifelong professional growth as a teacher. They are especially powerful when integrated with organized structures for ongoing dialogue with other adults. This book offers many reasons, stories, and tools to help early childhood educators seeking to promote intentional teaching for themselves and their colleagues."
- Carolyn Pope Edwards, Cather Professor Emeritus, University of Nebraska-Lincoln
