First Day of the Box Exchange

Yesterday was the first day of the Box Exchange at Clinton-Massie Elementary, and the children did wonderfully! Never under estimate the abilities of 9 year olds. They caught on to the concept immediately, generated creative ideas about what to put in the box, and had remarkably insightful things to share during our interviews. I am thrilled to be working with this group of children and am thankful for the strong sense of community Mrs.Harris has created amongst the students in her class. An ethic of mutual respect and curiosity pervades this group of students.

Jamie and Doug of Import Exports did an outstanding job responding to the spontaneity of the project. When the children broke off into brainstorming groups around the room Jamie and Doug were on hands and knees documenting the children's work from the children's perspective.

But of course, as with anything being attempted for the first time, there were valuable learning opportunities along the way. Most of my experience working with children has taken place in preschool settings, so despite my best efforts to anticipate the abilities of 3rd graders, I found myself routinely put off balance by the insightful comments put forth during discussion. There knowledge of Nepal far exceeded what I had expected, and their ability to translate an idea ("I want them to know I like to sing") into something concrete that could be placed in the box ("Let's tape record it and put that in the box") required no leading whatsoever on my part.

Students, teachers, and project organizers alike, all wavered a bit under the intimidating gaze of the cameras, but I have complete confidence that we will become more adept at maintaining our composure in the weeks to come.

All in all, the day was a huge success!