How can we meet children’s needs in a world where kindergarten is the “new first grade”? In this thought-provoking session, award-winning author Heather Shumaker will examine the pressures young children face, including early academics and overly scheduled days, even in child-centered programs. She shares her dynamic list of “Children’s Rights” and challenges adults to realign our expectations to truly meet kids’ needs.
Facilitated by Heather Shumaker
Heather Shumaker writes books for children and adults. She began writing books in elementary school and is now an award-winning author. The Griffins of Castle Cary is her first book for young readers. Before she became an author, Heather tried many jobs, including: milk maid, tall ship sailor, llama trek guide and fire crew. She also lived at the South Pole and sorted garbage and recycling in Antarctica. Heather now lives in northern Michigan with her family where she co-hosts the children's book podcast BookSmitten.