Through the Kaleidoscope:
Reframing Challenges in Early Childhood Education
a teacher-research mentoring program with Pam Oken-Wright
“Would it help to shift our perspective and embrace the possibilities that would not be possibilities if we ran from inner conflict? To form learning communities among ourselves? To seek out pedagogical companions and come to understand that we are not alone? To have a plan for the inevitable uncertainty and sticking points in our work with children and each other?”
Embracing Challenges in Early Childhood Education: Flexible Protocols for the Thinking Teachers
by Pam Oken-Wright
A unique opportunity:
This program will be a journey for a small consortium of educators interested in pointing their documenting efforts toward exploring ways to embrace the conflict that inevitably and necessarily inhabits our teaching and learning.
As a participant, you will be invited to document and share challenges and sticking points you encounter in your setting and to share your teacher-research around the many types of conflict that arise in your work.
With reference to the flexible protocols in Pam’s book, Embracing Challenges in Early Childhood Education: Flexible Protocols for the Thinking Teacher, we will explore ways to head off, respond to, and appreciate the value in all types of tension points in the classroom.
We will explore practical possibilities that honor the intelligence, resourcefulness, creativity, and agency of children and teachers. We will work to solidify and disseminate that image of the Thinking Teacher.
“It would be wonderful if every teacher had a pedagogical consultant/companion with her at every moment to offer collaboration as problems arise and not get in the way when they don’t. But that is unrealistic. Where a teacher needs support or reassurance but doesn’t have human support, or when colleagues need a scaffold they can build upon, flexible protocols…provide guidance without being prescriptive. Flexible protocols are open-ended systems that a teacher can use to address pedagogical sticking points, either as they arise or to head them off. Rather than give a short answer to an internal or external point of conflict, flexible protocols offer a long-form map that can broaden the canvas of learning. That is, in using flexible protocols, the educator uses challenges as an asset to the teaching and learning processes. The conflict becomes the curriculum; working through it enriches and educates all involved.”
— Pam Oken-Wright
A Unique Community:
Just as children thrive in the company of a community of learners, so do teachers. You will not have to undertake this challenge alone, but will have like-minded new colleagues to accompany you. As your pedagogical companion, Pam will provide both individual and group coaching.
Who will join?
Teachers and Administrators who are committed to collaborative work to practice, explore, and reflect on the use of the flexible protocols in their setting.
How will we partcipate?
A small group of 3-10 educators will meet on Zoom with Pam once a month for group coaching. They will also meet online through The Studio for Playful Inquiry’s private platform where they can share and comment on ongoing research and documentation. This will be continuous dialogue, and assignments will be responsive to the needs and interests of the participants.
Is there another option?
Yes. An asynchronous only option is available to all Studio Transform members and those who would like to purchase access. Pam will post chapter questions, provocations, reflections, and/or resources. Participants will respond to those provocations and can pose their own conundrums, questions, and insights to the group.
What does the course include?
Each participant in the small group (live group option) will have the opportunity to work individually with Pam for one hour during the program. Additional time can be purchased separately. All participants will have access The Studio’s Engage level membership which includes curated weekly readings and a chance to hear from inspiring leaders in our field monthly. It also includes access to optional biweekly live writing meet ups and work sessions.
When will we meet?
The live small group meetings will be held from 7-8:30 pm (Eastern) on the following dates: December 4, 2025; January 8, 2026; February 5; March 5; April 16; May 7.
Is there required reading?
Yes. Participants will read Embracing Challenges in Early Education. You’ll also be expected to keep up with weekly posts on The Studio platform and to read and respond to your colleague’s work.
Several Ways to Join:
Regular (self-pay) registration: $850
Institution pay - or for those who can afford to support those who need to pay a bit less: $1000
Supported registration: $700
Asynchronous only registration: $199
Join The Studio’s annual Transform membership and receive access to the asynchronous course at no extra charge.
