“Learning how to do projects is often described as a journey, an ongoing process.”
Judy Harris Helm
The Project Approach Catalog 3, the Project Approach Study Group
Here at the museum, we see many different journeys each year as new and veteran teachers take on new projects. Each journey is different and unique. To share some the many stories that we hear, we interviewed past participants and mentors who have continued to develop their roles in the Project Approach movement.
Interview with Joy Ward Director at Toon Town II
Joy has truly made a career at her center, journeying from lead teacher, to curriculum coordinator, and then to assistant director before her current role as director.
I know you’ve been involved in Early Childhood Education since you were 19, and your major became Early Childhood Education, was there a turning point or something that really moved you to make the commitment to Early Childhood?
“Having my children. I was working in childcare and thought ‘What can I do in life that will allow me to still have an influence in my children’s lives?’ I made the decision to make working in early childhood education a career instead of just a job.”
How did you hear about the Kohl Children’s Museum Project Approach Training?
“I don’t remember, but I think it was after a field trip. We were on a list and started to receive emails and letters. It may be that the director came with a letter to show us.”
What influenced your decision to participate in the training?
“I’ll be honest, money. The field trip, supplies, as well as the stipend were what got my attention.”
Can you tell me about your first project topic? How did it evolve?
“Butterflies. I was influenced by Bethanie and her experience. She was my presenter and hearing her speak about her experience, as well as it being spring time influenced the decision.”
Did you face any difficulties during your project? How did you handle them?
“Attempting to find a topic. We wanted to get the kids reactions, but it’s hard when they’re age 3 to word it appropriately to get a response. They didn’t know how to answer questions yet. They thought ants would be cool but screamed when ants came in the room. So, I ended up choosing the topic of butterflies.”
What impact did the project have on you and your students?
“On me, I learned so much more about how it encompassed so many domains. For them, it impacted their experiences. They were excited because they were able to utilize adult things like cameras. Their high involvement was the most impactful for me and for them.”
After your first project, why did you continue to do project work?
“I realized and witnessed the benefit of how impactful it is for everyone including the families. I wanted to continue for the next group and all children to have such experiences.”
What experts or field sites have you used in your projects?
“I utilized the neighborhood and community a lot. For the art project, we went to nearby art galleries and the Mexican Art Museum. For the donut project, we went to the neighborhood Jewel.”
What barriers have you experienced while doing Project work?
“Some things you don’t know until the project unfolds. We couldn’t experience true baking in the bakery because of restrictions, and at the Jewel they didn’t bake. But, it added to our knowledge about the bakery safety and rules, and became a learning experience.”
What successes have you had with the Project Approach?
“With the Art project, really having the parent involvement, influenced the children to really take pride in it. We had all different types of art mediums, from sculptures to dresses for parents to purchase. It was more than just looking at their art, the students had pride that their parents wanted to buy their art.”
How do your teachers incorporate the Project Approach and the Creative Curriculum?
“They go hand in hand. The Creative Curriculum is the foundation, and the project extends.”
While you’re no longer in the classroom, how do you continue to be involved in the Project Approach?
“Assisting and coaching teachers with implementing project skills and projects.”