Bending Water

Bending Water chronicles the story of the Brevard Community College Lab School, a pioneering program in Florida that reimagined early childhood education by placing parents at the heart of their children's learning journey. Drawing on decades of experience, authors Suzanne Geier and Wendy Potter blend personal anecdotes, developmental theory, and practical guidance to illustrate the profound impact of parent-child bonding on a child's growth. Through detailed chapters on daily life, physical, emotional, social, and cognitive development, the book reveals how the Lab School's collaborative approach empowered both parents and children to thrive.

The narrative is enriched by expert testimonials and real-life stories from families and educators, demonstrating how nurturing, understanding, and engagement can transform the parenting experience and support a child's individuality. The book also explores the historical context of Brevard County during the space race era, highlighting how community needs shaped the Lab School's evolution. With insights for parents, educators, and anyone invested in child development, Bending Water serves as both a tribute to an innovative educational model and a practical guide for fostering resilient, confident children in today's world.

Geier earned a BA from Duke University with a major in psychology and a minor in philosophy, an MS from Florida Technological University (now the University of Central Florida) in psychology, and an Ed. D. from Nova University in educational administration. She was Barbara Young's second Lab School teacher, became a parent educator, and was the program's director when she retired. She spent her professional life working with children and families.She and her husband, Bill, an electrical engineer in the space program's early days, lived on the Indian River in Rockledge with their two children. Now retired, she enjoys cooking, the outdoors, engaging with others, and community involvement.

Potter earned a BA in English from the University of Michigan and taught English in high school until her first child was born. She and her husband, Bill, moved to Brevard County, where Bill, a new attorney, decided to establish a practice. Following the recommendation of a friend, they enrolled in the Lab School program. While in Lab School, Wendy earned an MA in Guidance and Counseling through Stetson University. As Lab School reflected what she was learning in the Stetson program, the Potters continued Lab School with all three children. Wendy became a Parent Educator for all four age groups: Younger Infants, Older Infants, Toddlers, and Three- to Five-Year-Olds.The close-knit Potter family now has three children and three grandchildren. Their experience within their own family and contact all these years later with former Lab School parents affirms the effect of Lab School on their children's adult lives, a generational effect.Wendy and Bill now split their time between Montana and Florida, where they enjoy changes in terrain and temperature. In retirement, Wendy, who has a 'green thumb', digs being a Master Gardener.