Lisa Murphy on Being Child Centered provides an in-depth exploration of the author’s approach to working with children. Lisa Murphy outlines nine characteristics programs need to build an environment that’s child-centered, where play, developmentally appropriate practice, and academic standards all come together under one roof.

Nine characteristics of a child-centered environment:

Children are provided long periods of uninterrupted free time to explore their environment
Children are provided lots of time outdoors
Children are able to explore the environment with few restrictions
Adults control the environment, not the children
Adults serve as facilitators within the space
Adults articulate the intention behind their words and actions
Adults are familiar with current research and the key contributions of historical child development theorists
Adults are aware of the importance of keeping it real
Children are provided time and opportunity to create, move, sing, discuss, observe, read, and play every day


Using true-to-life examples, anecdotes, and her signature conversational style, this book presents and explores the true identifying characteristics of a hands-on, play-based, child-centered environment.

*Finalist in the Midwest Book Awards 2020 (Education category)