Psalm 34:14 says “Do good; seek peace and pursue it”. Another verse we could apply is from James 3:17-18: Now the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace.”
Piker believed that adults need to create a safe, quiet and peaceful environment where infants and toddlers can move and play in their own way. To provide such an environment, teachers are not to appear rushed, must keep their voices at a low level, and plan ahead to ensure that things don’t turn to custard all while putting the needs of the child first! It takes a lot of team work, a lot of planning, and a lot of communication.
Teachers need to provide time for undisturbed play – play that is not interrupted by the routines of the day. Children need time to explore at their own pace – to examine and taste an object; to play without teachers’ input – which, however well intentioned, can interrupt the learning process.
Teachers need to slow down and observe more. Take. Your. Time.
The role of the natural environment should not be overlooked. There is something about creation that calms the soul – for adults as well as children. This can be a tricky one as health and safety and also convenience have meant that our outdoor environments are becoming more sterile and less natural but children need sand and water and mud and dirt and bugs and insects.
A Peaceful Curriculum does not mean that children cannot make a noise. Rather, teachers' movements are unhurried, their voices soft, and their overall manner and way of responding one of calm and peace. Nor are teachers the "peacemakers" in the sense that they solve children's conflicts. Children are capable agents of their own conflict resolution if given time and support.
The keys for providing a Peaceful Curriculum? Relationship (and more specifically dedicated or primary caregiving), a daily rhythm that focuses on children’s needs (i.e. throw out the rosters and clock), a home-like environment, respect, and a team approach.
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