Expanding Perspectives

Paula Jorde Bloom, Michael W. Louis Chair • March 1, 2006

This document may be printed, photocopied, and disseminated freely with attribution. All content is the property of the McCormick Center for Early Childhood Leadership.

You’ve probably heard the tale of the six blind men standing around an elephant, each feeling a different part of the animal. One touched the trunk and announced that an elephant was like a snake. Another took hold of the tusk and compared an elephant to a spear. Another felt the leg, declaring that an elephant was like a tree trunk. Still another placed his hands on the side of the elephant and exclaimed that the beast was like a wall. The fifth, holding the elephant’s ear, compared the animal to a large fan. The last blink man took hold of the tail and announced that an elephant was like a rope. … Download this resource to read the rest of this story.


This resource is part of our archived Director’s Link newsletter series.

Paula Steffen
By Paula Steffen July 23, 2025
Paula Steffen reflects on over 40 years in early childhood leadership—her journey, roles, and heartfelt gratitude as she retires as Quality Supports & Evaluation Manager.
Show More