Welcome to Acorn Collaborative!
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Welcome to a dedicated space where early childhood educators can find inspiration and support. Here, you'll discover a wide array of resources and tools designed to spark exploration, encourage creative expression, and promote investigative learning. Our platform is committed to helping you create enriching environments and experiences that nurture young minds, empowering them to explore the world around them with curiosity and confidence.
Established in 2003 in Ontario, Canada, Acorn Collaborative is a dynamic force in early childhood education, working closely with educators and professionals across Canada, the US, and internationally. We foster a collaborative spirit that transcends borders, partnering with programs to create innovative learning experiences and build meaningful connections.
Rosalba Bortolotti, Founder of Acorn Collaborative
With a profound commitment to promoting a strong and participatory image of children within the community, my journey in early childhood education has been marked by dedicated endeavours. As the owner and pedagogical coordinator of Acorn School from 2004 to 2015, a Reggio Emilia-inspired institution, I immersed myself in fostering children's knowledge while cultivating a community of learning and living together.
At Acorn School, our focus was to create a nurturing environment that went beyond traditional education. We endeavoured to build a responsible and respectful school community, and one of our innovative approaches was the integration of classroom gardens. Collaborating with local businesses and farmers, we brought awareness of the land, emphasized the importance of growing local and seasonal foods, and engaged our students in the process of caring for gardens and preparing meals for the school.
My dedication extends beyond the walls of the classroom. I've been actively involved in collaborative projects, consulting, designing spaces for and with educators and children, with community partners, school districts, and university faculties. Over the course of my extensive 29-year career, I have conducted research, visited Reggio Emilia-inspired infant-toddler and preschools since 1994, participated in numerous study groups in Reggio Emilia, the US, and Canada. I believe I continue to play a pivotal role in shaping the field of early childhood education alongside other colleagues, teachers, children, families, community members, and with professional friendships.
In 2014, I earned a Play-worker certificate from the UK through Popup Adventure Play, emphasizing my commitment to exploring different facets of early childhood education, play, and outdoor learning with nature and the environment. My work focuses on pedagogical thinking, activating early childhood education, and conducting ongoing pedagogical research. I am dedicated to continuously rethinking educational practices and working alongside educators, children, and families.
In 2012, York Region Nature Collaborative was formed and partnered with Toronto and Region Conservation Authority. We are , a volunteer collaborative that works together with early years organizations and associations to improving access to nature programs for all ages. While this collaborative was founded in York Region, events are open to all that are interested. I am thrilled to be the Chair, working alongside many specialists in outdoor education as well as early childhood educators. We are always looking for volunteers. Check out the website https://www.yrnature.ca/
Since 1994, my passion for early childhood education has taken me to study groups and courses, this continuous exploration and community involvement
If you share our passion for transformative education, we invite you to explore Acorn Collaborative and join us in shaping the future of early childhood learning.
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I look forward in connecting! rosalba@acorncollaborative.com