At SUSS, I found my voice and grew more comfortable sharing ideas.
Alongside passionate peers, I co-founded the Early Childhood Education Interest Group (ECEIG), where we fostered a supportive community of learners. This group became a space for growth, collaboration, and mutual encouragement throughout our educational journey.
My time at SUSS introduced me to fresh perspectives, including the concept of Japan's 'forest education'. This new approach made me reflect on my own practices and ask, “How can I expect children to feel comfortable in nature if I, as their educator, am not?” Inspired by this, I began immersing myself in outdoor environments with children, learning from their natural curiosity and ease with the world around them. These experiences motivated me to bring nature into the classroom.
One particularly memorable experience during my practicum was introducing young children to a millipede. Although initially afraid, they gradually became comfortable handling it with care. This encounter demonstrated the profound role nature plays in children's development and opened my eyes to the value of risky play. I saw how these activities helped children connect with their bodies, emotions, and surroundings.
I initially chose SUSS because it was the only autonomous university offering a degree in Early Childhood Education, but looking back, I hardly recognise the person I’ve become. My journey here has pushed me beyond my comfort zone, fostering both personal and professional growth.
Co-leading the ECEIG remains one of my proudest achievements. Beyond the group's accomplishments, I deeply value the personal growth I experienced. I learned that the only limits in education are those we set for ourselves. By embracing challenges – whether messy, complex, or unconventional – we open new learning possibilities.
As part of my applied project, I conducted a study titled “Encouraging Outdoor Risky Play in Preschool Children through Learning Invitations,” which I presented at the PECERA Conference. Engaging with fellow researchers deepened my understanding of innovative early childhood practices and highlighted the value of diverse perspectives in education.
Looking ahead, I am eager to shift perspectives on outdoor learning in preschools. While my contributions may seem small, I believe that each step I take will help drive a broader change in how early childhood education embraces the natural world.