Ann Gadzikowski is an author and educator with a passion for challenging children to think creatively and critically. Ann’s book Robotics for Young Children won the Midwest Book Award for best educational book and her book Creating a Beautiful Mess: Ten Essential Play Experiences for a Joyous Childhood won gold in the National Parenting Publications Awards. Ann’s book newest book Problem Solving with Young Children offers teachers practical techniques for inquiry-based learning in early childhood classrooms.
A graduate of the Erikson Institute, Ann has many years of experience as a teacher and director of early childhood programs. Her work with children embraces both the arts and the sciences. Ann’s credentials in music and literature informed her work as executive director of Preschool of the Arts, a Reggio-Emilia inspired school in Madison, Wisconsin. Ann also developed expertise in robotics, computer science, and engineering through her role as early childhood coordinator for Northwestern University’s Center for Talent Development. Ann is a frequent speaker at professional conferences, such as the National Association for the Education of Young Children. She teaches early childhood education courses at Oakton Community College and frequently provides training and consultation for schools and early childhood organizations.
