(1) Florida International University, 10981 NW 59 St., Doral, FL 33178, USA
Abstract:
Conscious of the interplay between nature and nurture in determining a child’s individuality and success in life, the author
embarked a group of teachers in an action research project towards nurturing a culture of thinking in young children. Considering
the positive effects of routines in early learning experiences, the research consisted in implementing thinking routines to
engage young children’s minds in thinking activities. The study took place in two Reggio-inspired schools where participating
teachers documented children’s work as part of their teaching. The documentation was a key element to make children’s thinking
visible as they installed the culture and language of thinking in their classrooms. The study found that thinking routines
build up positive attitudes about thinking and learning. By re-visiting their documented work children developed metacognitive
and critical thinking skills which make them more alert to situations that call for thinking.