Do children have superpowers?
Other than in the movies, they may not be able to fly or use X-ray vision. But in the case of one innovative Kansas project, these children have learned that they do have smile-power. This is part of a remarkable intergenerational childcare program found in rural Kansas.
Last week we learned about Allen Schmidt and Resurrection Vineyard in Hays. Allen’s son, Brett, was born in Hays. The family moved around due to Allen’s military career.
Later, Brett Schmidt earned a degree in early childhood development and master’s degree in brain-based teaching and learning. He went on to teach kindergarten in Independence, Kan. where he met – and later married – Ashley.
When Brett’s folks returned to Hays, Brett and Ashley moved back as well. Brett took a teaching position at the rural community of Stockton, population 1,480 people. Now, that’s rural.
He went on to work for Child Care Aware, training and coaching childcare providers.
While in southern Kansas, Brett observed an intergenerational day care program in a nursing home. “I thought it was cutting edge,” he said. He wanted to establish such a program in northwest Kansas.
