INOVATIVNOST V VZGOJI IN IZOBRAŽEVANJU POVZETEK Delo v vzgoji in izobraževanju je kompleksen proces, še posebej pomemben v predšolskem obdobju. Za dobro delo vzgojitelja v vrtcu je poleg strokovnosti in človečnosti zelo pomembna odprtost, pripravljenost na spremembe in prilagajanje. Ključni pa sta tudi ustvarjalnost in inovativnost vzgojitelja. Opisala bom projektno delo na temo inovativnost in spreminjanje lastne prakse v našem vrtcu. Za inovativnost je pomembna zunanja spodbuda, v največji meri pa vzgojiteljeva motivacija za sprejemanje sprememb. Za spodbujanje in razvijanje ustvarjalnosti otrok je nujno, da so strokovni delavci inovativni in da pri načrtovanju svojega dela upoštevajo individualne značilnosti, potrebe, želje in interese otrok. Živimo v času sprememb, kar zahteva stalno učenje vseh pedagoških delavcev, ki morajo sproti spreminjati tudi svojo prakso. Vzgajamo najmlajšo populacijo in poskrbeti moramo, da jih vzgojimo v vedoželjne in zainteresirane ljudi, ki bodo imeli ideje, ki si bodo upali… ABSTRACT Educating and schooling is a complex process, especially important in a preschool period. A good educator is not only competent and humane; one must show openness, readiness for change and adaptation. Creativity and innovation are as important for a good educator. The research project focuses on innovation and development of practice in our kindergarten. External stimulus is important to enhance innovation, however not as important as educator’s own motivation for changes. In order to encourage and develop children's creativity, it is essential that professional educators are innovative and that they take into account the individual characteristics, needs, wishes and interests of children when planning their work. Due to constant changes, continuing professional development of pedagogical employees and development of their practice is required. As we are educating the youngest population, we have to ensure we raise them into curious and attentive people who are daring and have ideas.