grounding content in the lives of users
Years ago, I discovered that it is not always simple to convey content in a meaningful and helpful way.
It was 1977. As director, I was giving a tour of the Bank Street Infant and Family Center to a group of visiting infant/toddler teachers. I showed them the family photographs hung low so children could easily see and touch them. Then explained, “The photos help children feel close to the people they love the most.”
Three weeks later, the visitors invited me to their program. “We learned so much from you. Look,” they said proudly. “Now we have family photos too.”
And they did. Carefully arranged.
Five feet off the floor. At adult-eye level.
Since then I’ve learned that in order to be effective, information needs to connect to the user. By reflecting the reality of daily life, whether in a classroom, community agency or home, my writing gives credence to educators, parents and other changemakers; their voices are heard, so they are receptive to learning and using new information and ideas. They can then build on what works rather than wasting valuable time and energy reinventing a broken wheel.
To be effective, information needs to connect to the user. By reflecting the reality of their daily lives my writing gives credence to educators, family members and other changemakers.
Powerful Interactions: How to Connect with Children to Extend Their Learning, Second Edition
I recognized a need for a book about interactions – one that helped teachers see themselves as decision-makers and to realize that what they say and do matters. Together with my friends and collaborators, Judy and Charlotte, we articulated three steps to transform an everyday interaction into a Powerful Interaction: Be Present, Connect and Extend Learning. Powerful Interactions was born.
Honoring Our Babies and Toddlers: Supporting young children affected by their Veteran family’s transition to civilian life, injury, or parental death – A Guide for Caring Professionals
"Amy writes with a warm, personal, and respectful tone that helps the reader feel cared for and at ease. She is able to convey complex ideas simply, clearly, and with tremendous compassion. Her writing has enriched the materials we have created for both families and professionals."
—Dorinda Silver Williams, PhD, LCSW-C, ACSW;
Director, Military Family Projects; ZERO TO THREE
A Parent’s Guide to the Head Start Home-Based Program Option
This book offers families encouragement and concrete tips for building a mutual learning partnership with a home visitor on behalf of their baby or toddler. The respectful tone and content continues to be a helpful guide for home visitors in their conversations with families.