Examining my Ideals
We shall strive to build individual relationships with each child; make individualized adaptations in teaching strategies, learning environments, and curricula; and consult with the family so that each child benefits from the program. (NAEYC, 2005)
As an early childhood professional, my first and foremost responsibility is to the child. I wish to create a safe and nurturing environment that will promote each child's successful development. In doing so, I hope my influence will build the foundation of a lifelong learner in every student in my classroom.
We shall respect, value, promote, and encourage the active participation of ALL families by engaging families in meaningful ways in the assessment and intervention processes. (Division of Early Childhood, 2000)
The partnership between the family and the school is essential in developing a successful learner. Every family should be included in their child's education. As professionals, we must consider cultural and religious beliefs as well as find ways to communicate effectively with each individual family. In doing so, we are developing a collaborative partnership that will enhance parent involvement and student development.
We shall strive for the highest level of personal and professional competence by seeking and using new evidence based information to improve our practices while also responding openly to the suggestions of others. (Division of Early Childhood, 2000)
As educators it is important to remain aware of current trends, research, and data that are in the area of early childhood development. Children are constantly changing and as professionals we must change with them in order to encourage their development. We must remain open and flexible to new ideas that will support student growth.
References
The Division for Early Childhood. (2000, August). Code of ethics. Retrieved on August 7,
2012 from http://www.dec-sped.org/
NAEYC. (2005, April). Code of ethical conduct and statement of commitment. Retrieved on
August 7, 2012 from
http://www.naeyc.org/files/naeyc/file/positions/PSETH05.pdf
I think one strength of a good teacher is to be able to determine where each child is, meet him/her there and seek to bring he/she up to the other level. Too often we use a whole class approach when teaching. However, we need to understand the individual need of each child.
ReplyDeleteBeth,
ReplyDeleteI really liked how the ideals you chose focused on the child first, collaborating and connecting with families secondly, and highlights the importance for maintaining current professionalism. These ideals focused on three of the most critical components of early childhood education.
I agree that we need to work on creating a safe and healthy environment for children that fosters individualism. Through this kind of environment, I feel that children will really be able to reach their fullest potential.
One of the other ways to help children reach their fullest potential is to involve all families in the educational process. I think this ideal is a great reminder that we need to support and nurish those family connections.
As professionals, we need to know about the latest research and strategies. Through this, we will be able to improve our teaching styles and be able to reach children at a more profound level.
Thanks for posting these ideals! They served as great reminders for me.
I like how you brought up the ideal with individual relationships. Those relationships are so important as we have learned through this class. Building those relationships with each child by talking to them individually and spending time one on one with them can be hard to do in a group setting with 10, 15 20 or more children, but it is soooo important!
ReplyDeleteBeth,
ReplyDeleteI couldn't figure out how to post this directly onto your blog, so I am posting it to this comments section. I wanted to let you know that it has been a great eight weeks working with you and getting to know you through your discussion posts your blog, and your comments. Thanks for encouraging me in my work. Your posts have given me insight into being an educator. I really enjoyed your personal childhood web, and the quotes you posted. It was great to read about your experiences and gain wisdom from your selections. I hope that as you move on towards the next stage of this program and as you continue to advocate for children, that you be reminded by your time in this course why you are doing what you are doing and that this course would be a helpful resource in your future endeavors.
Best wishes!
Arielle
Beth,
ReplyDeleteI've been trying to find you to thank you for your acts of kindness during the beginning of the course when I was so stressed about creating this blog. By the way, your blog is beautiful. You were the first one to respond to my e-mail and sent detail instructions on how to set it up. I appreciate it more than you will ever know. I enjoyed reading and learning from your discussion posts; especially, about advocacy. I wish only blessings for you going forth down your professional path. Hopefully, we will have the opportunity to study with each other again. Keep advocating for children as I'm sure you will.
God Bless!
Audrey
Beth, Your goals for advocacy and your work with children who have special needs are admirable. I have enjoyed reading your blogs and discussion posts during the past eight weeks. It has been enlightening for me and very evident of the passion you have for your work! I look forward to hearing more from you in future classes.
ReplyDelete