Over the past seven weeks we have been engaged in numerous
in-depth conversations regarding the array of issues that impact the field of
early childhood. We began this course with the exciting challenge of trying to
make connections with other early childhood professionals from around the
world. This gave us the opportunity to see how these issues are impacting the field of early childhood in different countries. When reading through my colleagues’weekly Blogs, it was interesting to see that some were successful in
connecting with international early childhood professionals, while others were
not. For those who were not successful, it gave us the chance for us to learn new information concerning the varying podcasts that they listened to. The information from the Blogs gave me the opportunity to learn and grow with regards to the issues our field faces.
Throughout this course, we have learned about
unintended consequences that can either be positive or negative. Learning about
the international early childhood field has brought forth positive consequences
that have helped me grow both personally and professionally. One consequence about the international early childhood field is that the issues that this field is faced with are universal. All families have the same needs which are for their children to have access to quality care so they have the opportunity to develop to their fullest. I have also realized that is important to keep current with what is happening around the world concerning the field of early childhood. Even though we may live half way around the world from some countries, we can learn for one another. We can use the values and beliefs from other countries and integrate them with our own values. When we learn from one another, it enables us to become a stronger network.
One goal that I
personally and professionally have for the field related to international
awareness of issues and trends would be to work toward becoming a profession where
early childhood educators are valued, respected, and acknowledged as
professionals……world wide!! I hope that one day we can leave the word “babysitter”
behind. Once we work towards becoming valued as professionals, we can work
towards employing all early programs with educators who are highly qualified so
children can have access to the high quality care they deserve.
Thank you to all of you who have shared a wealth of information regarding the issues that impact the field of early childhood! It is professionals like all of you who make such a positive difference! :)
Cheers,
Stephanie
Cheers,
Stephanie
Stephanie,
ReplyDeleteEarly childhood development impacts the course of a child’s later development. When well nurtured and cared for in their earliest years, children are healthier and better able to fully develop their thinking, language, emotional and social skills; they perform better in school; and they have a greater chance of becoming creative and productive members of society. Stephanie good luck in your future endeavors.
Stephanie,
ReplyDeleteWouldn't it be great to leave the "b" word behind us as professionals? I find myself getting frustrated with families that come into my program who can't (or refuse sometimes) to fully understand what all the teachers do for their child. So much more than babysitting. We've made it through another class! Yay!
Machaela
Stephanie,
ReplyDeleteI have enjoyed reading your blogs and discussion throughout this course. I have truly opened my mind to the international community and want to be part of an organization that fights for the rights of all children no matter what gender, economic status, race, culture or geographic location. I was very impressed with UNICEF and hope to one day be involved in a missionary trip.