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Dec 5, 2022Liked by Rachel Baker & Maggie Bullock

“The rise in sad beige parenting” is part kind-of funny (it’s making fun of ME!) but also the result, in my M Ed. opinion, of early childhood practices that are merging so beautifully (ha!) into family life. Yes, there’s an aesthetic that folks (myself included) love. And it began with the early childhood philosophies like those of Montessori and Reggio Emilia, which strive to offer an environment where children’s creativity and creations become the pops of color that can really stand out due to a more neutral (and less overstimulating) surrounding. Just look at the the quote best preschool unquote in your area. Nary a bulletin board border to be found. Those bulletin boards will be bare in all their cork (or sage green fabric covered) glory so that the student work shines. If it’s a *really* good school, those bulletin boards will also be at the kids’ eye level. The colors are ultimately inspired by nature (hence all the brown tones) and the idea of bringing the outside in. Also, there’s some (not enough yet) research that supports that a beautiful learning environment begets children who respect the space and want to achieve great things there. A beautiful learning environment might encourage children to take their learning more seriously. Has this all been blown out of proportion due to Zara (my fav for toddler clothes) and the mouse doll and the rise of white and grey bouncy houses? Probably. Just know, the origin has its heart in the right place. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I’m going to get back on Etsy to search for the perfect Valentine felt garland for my daughter’s playroom.

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