This is a larger banner that I put together from my students and their families from Montessori School. It was displayed at the Democratic Space in Hamilton’s Supercrawl 2018. Too bad I was not allowed to hang it over the fence, but thank you all for all those who came to admire it!
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/supercrawl-event-i-am-erica-villabroza-artist-tickets-50022244881
Friday September 14, 2018: Video Taping of My 3 Minute Pitch on Cable 14
This piece is in commemoration of First Nations and all incentives in regards to Canadian Education. I have been greatly touched by the remarkable and spiritual power of how forgiveness and love can conquer all past hurts. The Meeting House (Oakville) took ownership of this, and this piece helped me in this year’s Community Spirit nomination . Education can be positively constantly changing to a better world for all Canadians.
via Creative Connections: Art and Recreation
I find one of the best methods in knowing a child is to bond with them through creative and expressive play and art. I have used many of these methods in public and private schools. Eg. St. Andrews and Montessori. “Getting to Know You” type scenarios in free play and expressive outlets are proven to be very affective.
I used to be in the military as a platoon leader in Canada (HMCS Star in Hamilton to be exact). There are good and bad things when it comes to being strict with children in the classroom. But really, it comes down to when a child and their family trusts you in their care. If you are an educator that has to delegate in a military style at all times, then you are somewhat missing that personal link to care. As an advocate, it is imperative to understand the psyche of children and understand their emotions. Children are not meant to be soldiers in Canadian daycare and the like.
Providing these educational programs to children and their families help build community.
My experiences in these programs, have been very rewarding. Especially when it comes to building a relationship with a child or student who have been missing their loved ones for the better part of the day. After school programs such as the YMCA has helped with such causes, ensuring that children and their families have a means to develop for the better. Hence I believe, and have used methods of creativity to help bridge that gap.
It is proven that students thrive when they have creative outlets, particularly after finishing their daily curriculum. Having been a past performer in musical theatre, being part of choir or band, or any club for that matter, can help all facets of the equilibrium.
My niece is my biggest inspiration of why I do what I do. She was diagnosed with autism at an early age and was part of a focus study with CNN. Mila opened my world and helped me understand that children with special needs are here to teach “teachers” and others in the profession, that uniqueness is a beautiful and a gift to the world. We can all learn from each other’s gifts.
