We trust children and believe they are more capable than some adults often perceive. We respect children as equals deserving of gentle explanations. We don’t resist a child’s exploration, we protect it.We see children as autonomous people, deserving dignified direction. Our role as caretakers is to guide the child to the materials, and lead by example.  This is a learning experience for children to navigate social and emotional situations. When conflict arises, the role of the adult should be to observe children's interaction without obstruction and to only intervene when the conflict becomes harmful. Intervening within conflicts should look like redirecting, not controlling language or forced apologies. We trust children's intuition and believe there is wisdom for adults to glean. This school is free of discrimination and assumptions for all ages. Maypop is a safe and inclusive space for their children and caregivers.