The kind of educator you never forget

Today we are taking a moment to reflect on the lasting impact of a special educator one year on.  Louise had deep impact on the many tamariki who were lucky enough to pass through her care and education over many years. She has also left a strong legacy with her 5 mokopuna who were lucky enough to have her as their Nonnie.

Louise’s philosophy as an educator, and as a Nonnie was to enjoy Papatūānuku in all her beauty and to leave her as untouched as possible.  She knew nature sparked children’s curiosity and Louise fostered this effortlessly from noticing and enjoying autumn leaves, to searching for shells, enjoying the scents of nature through herbs, flowers, texture, and patterns.  Finding joy in the small wonders, supporting children to explore freely.

Louise’s laugh was infectious which added so much fun to the children’s day, she had a natural way to help children see the silly side of life, encouraging them to be a bit cheeky, I remember clearly when two tamariki were testing their aim and fine motor skills squirting water from a bottle at objects, then at each other then, bravely at Louise and to their surprise they got a squirt back! Everyone was in fits of laughter.  She had a skill of bringing life and love to even the little moments.

Nurtured at home often reflects on Louise as an exemplar who we continue to learn and grow from.  Let us all have more fun, encourage silliness, honour the environment we live in and build deep connections with our tamariki and whanau.  

Nui te aroha