I agree wholeheartedly with Reggio and could not state it in any better way. Although I don't have nearly as much experience as she does, I have also noticed that MY mood and energy has an enormous effect on the kids! When I get silly and sing songs with enthusiasm (not just because I feel I have to), then everyone joins in and there is a kind of energy that comes from it. When I am feeling tired or off, I can feel the mood of the whole group go down a bit. It is actually a bit scary to have such a responsibility! However, I guess it's part of learning too that everyone has days when they feel tired and aren't as enthusiastic as other days. Then we have a quieter day and I don't force myself to do anything in p[articular. I also let the kids lead a lot...when they say they want to paint, we paint, etc. I don't pre-plan...just go with the flow