A.) I.1 Professional Practice: This is contained in the Code of Ethics of the Division For Early Childhood. It states that "We shall demonstrate in our behaviour and language respect and appreciation for the unique value and human potential of each child".
Children like adults want to be appreciated and valued. When children are appreciated they feel good, when they are valued, we get the best out of them, they are encouraged and work harder. Demonstrating our respect to children through our behaviour and language as early childhood educators helps us in getting the students motivated for learning.
B.) Ideal I-1.1 "To be familiar with the knowledge base of early childhood care and education and to stay informed through continuing education and training".
The field of early childhood education is unique and dynamic, it is of utmost importance that all practitioners in the field posses the essential knowledge and skills needed for effectiveness. Continuous professional development increases the knowledge base of a practitioner, makes him/her stay informed as well as helping in improving his/her instructional and intervention practices. It is the realisation of this fact that informed my decision to take a graduate program in early childhood education.
C.) Ideal I-1.9 "To ensure that each child's culture, language, ethnicity, and family structure are recognised and valued in the program".
Studies have shown that a learner's culture, language background and family structure affect his /her learning. When a child's culture is recognised and valued the child's self esteem and self confidence increases which invariably help his/her motivation for learning. Facilitating successful learning experience for all children in the classroom is the goal of any childhood educator that worth the name. In a multicultural classroom, successful learning for all children can only take place when each child's culture, language, and family structure are not only recognised but equally valued.
You commented a couple of places about the importance of a child's self esteem and self confidence being tied to their motivation and learning. Those are very significant comments and should be realized by all teachers in the early care field. I absolutely agree with you that "successful learning for all children can only take place when each child's culture, language, and family structure are not only recognized but equally valued". More teachers should value where their chidren come from because the only way to truly value each child is to understand where they have come from and what their life is like outside of the classroom. Children are not learning only when at school and are not being molded by their teachers alone...their families and extending families and communities have a huge impact on who they become and it is our job as their teacher to understand all the compenents that go into making that child who they are.
ReplyDeleteYou stated that children work their best when they are praised. I believe that also, if we praise a child they get excited and want more of it. As an educator we should do more of it. I'm a firm believer of positive praise and believe children need it.
ReplyDeleteYou also commented about recognizing a child's cultural background. I believe this is much needed. You want a child to feel comfortable in their school environment. By including all cultures together you will create a welcoming community of learners.
Hello,
ReplyDeleteI just wanted to say thank you for your blog. I have received a lot of invaluable information you've posted. I hope you will continue to post and again thank you,
Vennetta