Professional Hopes & Goals

My hope for working with young children is that I will be able to inspire others to advocate for young children.  I believe that my role as an early childhood educator is to not only advocate for the children, but also the families that I serve. 

My goal for working with young children is to continue my education in early childhood education and apply that knowledge in everything that I do.  I will continue to work on my vision, and treat all children equitably.

I would like to take the time to say, "Thank you" to all of my colleagues for reading my blog, and discussion posts.  I hope that I will see many of you in future classes.  Good luck!

Welcoming Families from around the World

Welcoming families from around the world is pertinent to helping newly enrolled children become acclimated to an early learning environment.  In this specific scenario, I am a Director of an early learning center and we were just informed that a family is enrolling in our program.  The family's country of origin is Burma.  In order to help the child and his family I would take the following steps:

1. I would learn all that I could about Burma.
2. I would enlist the help of a translator to assist with language.
3. I would research the culture of Burma.
4. I would try to contact colleagues that are familiar with Burmese families.
5. I would encourage the family to ask questions, and become involved if they would like to do so.

By learning and developing a plan for newly enrolled families, the children will be more successful.  The culture and community of the program will benefit from involving families as well.

The Personal Side of Bias, Prejudice, and Oppression

What really surprised me this week was some of the posts made by peers regarding the LGBT community.  I think that we as educators must look at all individuals and appreciate their differences.  Some people believe that this is a choice for individuals to be gay or lesbian.  I have friends that are homosexual/bi-sexual, and they knew from a very early age that they were different.

The most important thing as an early childhood educator is to allow children to make choices that are right for them.  We know that a little boy playing with dolls, doesn't necessarily mean that he will become gay. Or that little girls that like to play with trucks will become lesbian.  Our goal as leaders and educators is to allow children to explore their environment and be skilled in acceptance of all people despite our differences.

Microaggression Awareness

During this week, I observed an incident of microaggression.  While driving to Thanksgiving to spend the day with my in-laws, my husband stated that he was feeling unsuccessful because of his place of employment.  My mother responded to him, "well, I used to feel that way all of the time, but I just put up with it".  While my mother's intentions were not negative, I explained about our learning about microaggression.  I explained to both of them, that while there was no malice in what she was saying, it still made my husband feel invalid.  It made him feel that his concerns were of no consequence. 

She apologized, which was not the reason I was telling her about it.  I wanted both of them to understand that although we are all challenged, it is important to listen to another's perspective.

Perspectives on Diversity and Culture

What does culture mean to you?  This was the question that I asked three different people.

- Culture is about your family. Diversity is the celebration of differences in others.- 36 yr. old middle class bi-racial male

- Culture is my community, and friends.  Diversity is differences in a community, and knowledge of that difference.- 22 yr. old upper class Caucasian female

- Culture is everything about my history, my family, my community, and my future.  When I was growing up, diversity was not accepted.  It wasn't until the mid-1960s that people of different backgrounds were socially permitted to co-exist. - 69 yr. old middle class Caucasian female.

I look at these answers and think to myself about diversity and culture.  I believe that each person made valid points in their definitions of both.  However, I believe much of this is surface culture.  According to Derman-Sparks and Edwards, "deep culture is language, migration, gender roles and connections" (2010).  This is the way that we should interact with the children we serve.

I believe that listening to others' beliefs about diversity and culture proved to me that perople really don't understand the importance of these topics.  I feel that there is still so much to leran. I appreciated the point that was made by the older generation, that we have begun to break the ice in celebrating diversity.  We still have a long way to go.

References:

Derman-Sparks, L. & Edwards, J.O. (2010).  Anti-bias education for young children and ourselves. 

        Washington, DC:  National Association for the Education of Young Children. (NAEYC).

Cultural Possessions

I'm asked to imagine the following scenario:


A major catastrophe has almost completely devastated the infrastructure of your country. The emergency government has decided that the surviving citizens will be best served if they are evacuated to other countries willing to take refugees. You and your immediate family are among the survivors of this catastrophic event. However, you have absolutely no input into the final destination or in any other evacuation details. You are told that your host country’s culture is completely different from your own, and that you might have to stay there permanently. You are further told that, in addition to one change of clothes, you can only take 3 small items with you. You decide to take three items that you hold dear and that represent your family culture.

This is a very difficult question for me to answer.  If my immediate family and I were some of the only survivors left in my culture and I had to choose three things to take with me I would probably take the following things:

1. My laptop- Most of my pictures are saved on my laptop computer.  My family tree information is saved on my computer as well.  Additionally, this would give me access to the world outside of the local culture.  It would allow me to obtain information from the internet, and even give me the ability to translate information into a new language.  Furthermore, I would be able to access information that would help stay abreast of the situation, and continue learning.

2.  My engagement ring- My ring is part of my culture because the diamond solitaire is actually from my mother's wedding ring, and it means a lot to me.

3. My Nook- I love to read, and my Nook has copies of my favorite books on it.  Additionally, it has games for my daughter to play on it.

If by chance I was told upon arrival that I was only allowed to keep one, I would choose my laptop.  The most important thing would be that my family was safe.  Any materials possessions are not that important, but if I had to choose, I would choose the laptop for all of the reasons listed above.

I guess what I have learned about my own culture in this exercise is that I depend a lot on technology outside of my family.  It surprises me more than I thought.  I never considered myself an extremely technical person, but I realize now how much of my daily activities and those of my culture revolve around technology.

Building Research Competencies

Over the course of the last 8 weeks, I have built my skills in research.  My past research consisted of a lot of quantitative data that needed to be deciphered.  In this course I learned about qualitative, and quantitative design models.  In addition, I learned about triangulation, ethical challenges, and equity as it pertains to research standards. 

I now realize the time, and effort it takes to perform a thorough research study.  I believe that a research study that is done correctly may take months, or even years to perfect.  Eight weeks of learning has definitely increased my knowledge and skill set, however, there is so much more to learn.

I learned that there is much to think about when conducting a research project.  One can not just throw data together and have it make sense.  Additionally, I learned that one must be willing to accept guidance when writing about research.  I believe that my perceptions as an early childhood professional have been modified as a result of this course because I now know appropriate protocol.  This protocol consists of background research, cross-study research and peer studies.

I would also like to take this opportunity to say "Thank you", to those of you that have been following this blog.  The topic of premature infants holds near to my heart and I hope that you have enjoyed learning about research as much as I have.  

 

International Research

I have decided to investigate the Early Childhood Australia website for this week's assignment.  This website has a lot of great information for early childhood educators and parents.  Some of the research topics that are discussed on the website include: childhood illness, childhood obesity, school readiness, school transitions, as well as a multitude of other topics. 

What I really enjoyed reading about on the website in regards to these research topics listed above is that they have developed "resource themes" that have been developed to assist individuals working with young children.  These themes give pertinent information on young children and their development.

Lastly, the code of ethics that the Early Childhood Australia organization holds includes these very important values: "respect, democracy, honesty, integrity, justice, courage, inclusivity, social and cultural responsiveness and education" (ECA, 2011).

Reference:

Early Childhood Australia. (2011).  Retrieved from http://www.earlychildhoodaustralia.org.au/

 

Kangaroo Care and Preemies

Kangaroo care for premature infants has become a common practice in many Neonatal Intensive Care Units around the world.  This type of parent/child bonding involves placing a child on their parent's chest.  The skin-to-skin contact has been shown to regulate baby's body temperature, heart rate and respiration.  According to the March of Dimes, "Kangaroo care helps maintain body warmth, regulate heart and breathing rates, gain weight, spend more time in deep sleep, spend more time being quiet and alert, and less time crying, and better milk production for the mother" (March of Dimes, 2012).

"Kangaroo care was started in 1979, in Bogota, Colombia.  There had been a large number of deaths in preterm babies, and there was lack of appropriate equipment for these infants.  The doctors found that by placing the child on the parents' skin, the infant would excel.  By 1983, UNICEF was recommending the practice be used throughout the world.  By the late 1980s research was proving the benefits of skin-to-skin contact for young infants" (Kangaroo Mother Care, 2012).

Above is a picture of my daughter and I using this bonding technique when she was just 3 days old.  I believe that touch and bonding helped her to be excel in the NICU, and in turn being released at just 4 weeks old.

Resources

Kangaroo Mother Care. (2012).  Where kangaroo mother care started.   Retrieved from http://www.kangaroomothercare.com/beginning-KMC.aspx

March of Dimes. (2012).  Holding your baby close: Kangaroo care.  Retrieved from http://www.marchofdimes.com/baby/inthenicu_kangaroocare.html

Personal Research Journey

Since I have been in the field of early childhood education for the past 15 years, I have gathered a vast amount of knowledge.  However, my research project for this course will be the long-term effects of prematurity on the education of young children.

My daughter was born at 31 weeks 1 day.  She weighed just 2 lbs. 12 oz. at birth.  During the first year of life many people told me not to expect a lot out of her.  They stated that she'd hit milestones later than most children.  I was scared.  I had been in the field for over 10 years, and I thought I knew everything about the development of young children.  Much to my surprise, I didn't know as much as I had thought.  So, I began researching everything I possibly could about raising a preemie.  I wanted to gather as much information as possible to ensure she had the best start to life. 

My daughter was not behind on her milestones.  She was happy, healthy, and is now a fantastic 3 1/2 year old girl.  She began to speak in sentences before her first birthday.  She walked when she was "supposed" to, and learns very quickly.  Without gloating over the intelligence of my child, I wanted to do research on how the effects of prematurity effect young children's education.  Is a parent's involvement and encouragement enough to help a child succeed?  Or is it innate that certain children are just better equipped to succeed regardless of their gestational age at birth?  Below, I have included a few pictures of my daughter.

 

International opportunities and consequences

Over the course of the past eight weeks, we have researched about ongoing trends and issues relating to early childhood education.  With this, we were asked to contact international organizations to gain better insight on early childhood in other countries.  I contacted over ten different people, and did not get one response back.  So for the remainder of the course I researched and gathered information from large international early childhood organizations. I subscribed to webcasts and podcasts from some organizations, and read through others.

I believe that some of the main things that I have learned throughout this course was that there are many organizations that benefit young children.  I have learned that these organizations focus on equity for all children.  How it begins may be different, but ultimately children must be given an opportunity to attend a safe and effective learning environment.  Additionally, I have learned that in order for children to have the opportunity to learn they must have their basic needs met.  Children can't learn without having a safe place to sleep, and food in their stomachs.  Lastly, I learned that we as early childhood professionals must continue to learn and advocate for young children throughout the world.  Being a mother, this effects me personally, while being an early childhood professional, this effects me professionally.

Good luck to you all!

UNESCO

UNESCO has many initiatives throughout the world that support early childhood programs around the globe.  Even though there are many different initiatives that benefit young children this week I have discovered more information about UNESCO. 
Three of the best initiatives for early care and education through UNESCO are:

1. The Global Education week in April 2012.  The week consisted of advocacy efforts for the early childhood initiatives. 

2. Educational Institutes and Conferences.  These conferences are held throughout the world in different geographical areas. 

3. Statistics completed by UNESCO has shown improvement throughout the world in global early childhood iniatives.

I believe that organizations such as UNESCO benefit the world's children in a positive way.  My concern is that young children are still not being given every opportunity to succeed in our country.  What can we do as Americans to help balance the needs of our children?

Resources:
http://www.unesco.org/new/en/education/themes/leading-the-international-agenda/education-for-all/advocacy/global-action-week/gaw-2012/facts-and-figures/

Amazing UNICEF

UNICEF has not ceased to amaze me.  Over the course of the past few weeks, I have continued to research more information on this vital organization.  Each week, I have looked at a different area that UNICEF works.  This week, I have looked into the areas that deal directly with equity in early learning for children around the world.  So many times, Americans take for granted the easy access to education.  Our children are given opportunities that many other children could only dream.

UNICEF states that "Every child must be ensured the best start in life – their future, and indeed the future of their communities, nations and the whole world depends on it" (UNICEF, 2012, para 3).  While we know that early childhood education is important for all young children, many children don't live much past their fifth birthday in some countries (UNICEF, 2012). 

One paper that was recently released by UNICEF was called "Right in Principle and in Practice: A review of the social and economic returns to investing in children" (UNICEF, 2012).  While I had trouble accessing the whole document, the abstract states that a group of advocates state that investing in early childhood programming benefits all children.

I appreciate that UNICEF continues to stand for children around the world.  They utilize current statistical data when reviewing information.  This is pertinent when it comes to the welfare of young children.  While I believe that UNICEF is a phenomenal organization, I only wish that there wasn't a need for it.  It saddens me to know that there are thousands and millions of children that may not be able to see their futures because of health or economic status.

References:

UNICEF. (2012). Working Paper:Right in Principle and Practice: A review of the social and economic returns to investing in children.  Retrieved from http://www.unicef.org/socialpolicy/files/Investing_in_Children.pdf

UNICEF. (2012). Early Childhood: Introduction.  Retrieved from http://www.unicef.org/earlychildhood/index_3870.html

Early Childhood Inequities

It remains a challenge to get any information from my international contacts.  I have not received any e-mails back for any of the people that I have contacted.  I have been following the World Forum Foundation podcasts, and have researched information on my own.  For this week's activity, I researched the Global Children's Initiative to find  information regarding their work on overcoming early childhood education inequities.

The Global Children's Initiative is through the Center on the Developing Child through Harvard University.  The goal of the Children's Initiative is to provide education for individuals around the world.  According to data from the website, the focus is on three aspects of early childhood education.  These include: "Reframe public discourse about early childhood development; support innovative research projects; and to build leadership in early childhood education" (Center on the Developing Child, n.d.)

I was unfamiliar with many of the resources that the Center on the Developing Child provides for the international community.  Work has been done to encourage others to believe in the importance of providing high quality experiences for young children.  This is extremely important in the foundational years of childhood.  Too many times, people feel that children don't begin learning until Kindergarten.  However, as early childhood professionals we know that children's learning begins at birth.  Many of the experiences that we provide for the children in our communities and schools are laying the foundation for the more academic skills in later childhood.  Without high quality early learning, many of the children in our communities would not be as successful.


References:

The Center on the Developing Child: Harvard University. (n.d.). Global Children's Initiative Fact Sheet.  Retrieved from http://developingchild.harvard.edu/index.php/activities/global_initiative/

World Forum Foundation

The World Forum Foundation has become increasingly more interesting to me over the past few weeks.  I have continued to read through articles pertaining to early childhood throughout the world.  Some of the topics that have piqued my interest have included:
- Children's Rights
- Men in Early Childhood education
- Including children with special needs
- Peace building with young children

Each of these topics has given some some insight on these important factors in early childhood education.  One of the most interesting and important references I have gathered through this site is the publication entitled From Conflict to Peace Building: The Power of early childhood initiatives. Lessons from around the world (Connolly, Hayden & Levin, 2007).  This is a free publication that can be downloaded.  It shares stories of peace building initiatives, and is motivating for early childhood professionals.  I have included the link at the bottom.

Reference

Connolly, P, Hayden, J., Levin, D, World Forum Foundation. (2007).  From Conflict to Peace Building:  The Power of Early Childhood Initiatives. Lessons from around the world.  World Forum Foundation Publications.  Retrieved from http://www.worldforumfoundation.org/wf/pdf/peace/WF_Peacebook_complete.pdf

International Contacts

It has remained a challenge for me to receive any response from my numerous e-mails to international contacts.  I have not received one response.  During the first week, I saw no harm in subscribing to the World Forum Radio podcasts just in case my international contacts didn't come through.  I am glad that I did.  Since subscribing to the world radio forum, I have listened to podcasts regarding many different aspects of early childhood education.  Of these podcasts, one from Delphena Mitchell.  She runs a program in Belize.  She discusses her challenges of running a program that serves children that have been abused.  She tells a tragic tale of a young boy that refused to talk for over one year.  She built a relationship with the child, and he began talking.  This really touched my heart.  It proves that if someone takes a little time, and has patience strong bonds can lead to life changing events for young children.

References:
Mitchell, D. (2009).  World Forum Radio.  http://worldforumfoundation.org/wf/wp/current-work/world-forum-radio/

UNICEF

The organization that I have decided to learn more about was UNICEF (www.unicef.org).  UNICEF is part of the United Nations.  They have many focuses for the betterment of young children.  Some of these areas of focus are:
- Child Survival & development
- Basic education & gender equality
- Children and HIV/AIDS
- Child Protection
- Policy Advocacy & Partnerships

UNICEF maintains records of many topics.  The one that caught my eye was the chart for neonatal mortality throughout the world.  I have included the link here... (http://www.childinfo.org/mortality_ufmrcountrydata.php).  It amazes me that there are still so many children dying in the world on an annual basis.  These numbers are heart-wrenching.  In Africa, 50 % of the total deaths for children under the age of 5 occur in this area.  Whereas, all industrialized countries together make up only 1 %.

Professional Contacts

This week has proved to be a difficult week in receiving responses to my requests for more information from leaders in early childhood education.  I have however, made attempts to contact individuals from around the world to gain a better understanding of ECE in their respective countries.

I have contacted the following organizations and individuals:

From the Global Alliance: NAEYC

Bosnia and HerzegovinaCenter for Educational Initiatives Step by Step
Radmila Rangelov- Jusovic
Email: radmila@costepbystep.ba

Canada
OMEP Comité national canadien
Canadian Child Care Federation
Yvonne Dionne
Email: ydionne@cccf-fcsge.ca

From UNICEF

Peru (Lima)

lima@unicef.org

Jamaica (Kingston) kingston@unicef.org
Trinidad & Tobago unicef@caribsurf.com
Australia (Sydney) unicef@unicef.org.au United Kingdom (London) Helpdesk@unicef.org.uk Additionally, I have signed up for newsletters from zerotothree.org

My Supports

My support system is strong, in spite of the fact that it is small.  I am a Director of an early childhood education program.  I depend on my staff, especially my Assistant Director to help with many aspects of managing a center.  Professionally I have a strong support in my staff as well as my supervisor.  It is difficult to run a program without the help of others that understand and value the children we serve.  I find it refreshing to have these supports.  A few years ago, I didn't have such a supportive staff, and it became detrimental to my health, and the welfare of my program.

Personally, I have three strong support people in my life.  My husband Justin, my daughter Julianna, and my mother Jeanne.  All three of them have advocated for my health and welfare as well as encouraging me to continue my education.  Many times, I have thought about giving up.  However, with their love and support I have stayed committed to earning my Master's degree.

I know if I didn't have such a strong support system. I would struggle to get through my days.  The  world as I am used to would be very different.  Right now, besides wishing I won the Publisher's Clearinghouse sweepstakes, I am perfectly content in my life.  That ultimately is what life is all about.

My Connections to Play

Quotes regarding play

• “We don’t stop playing because we grow old; we grow old because we stop playing.”-  George Bernard Shaw
• “It is paradoxical that many educators and parents still differentiate between a time for learning and a time for play without seeing the vital connection between them.”- Leo F. Buscaglia

Essential Play Items

IMAGINATION

IMAGINATION

ENDLESS MATERIALS

LOVE, SUPPORT, FRIENDSHIP

Role of Play throughout life

I was always allowed to play, and be creative throughout my childhood.  My philosophy for the children that I work with as well as my own daughter is to allow every opportunity to use their imagination.  Imagination includes the exploration of the environment, and how we work within that environment.  Play has become much different in the years since I was a young child.  The biggest difference that I have observed is the dependency on plastic toys, and multimedia toys.  When I was younger we used our imagination to play grocery store, or school.  Now, children have access to realistic foods, and items.  Additionally, when I was younger children didn't have the availability to multimedia or electronic toys.  In today's world children are emerging from their homes, without the ability to have appropriate social interactions.  Too much time is spent in front of the television and/or the computer.  When I was younger, we played outside until it got dark.  I understand that times change and I respect that some of the changes over the years have benefited many people.  I feel however that children are now incapable to hold positive social interactions with peers, and teachers.  Sometimes, I wish we could go back 20 years, and just show today's children that we were completely happy using our imagination, and playing with our friends.

Relationship Reflection

My Daughter Julianna & husband Justin

My daughter Julianna & Me

Relationships are vitally important in my life.  I have a small but tight-knit family.  My family consists of the following people...

My Baby

My Mom & daughter

My relationships with the few important people in my life have helped to develop my personality, and lifestyle.  My mother and I are very close.    We do everything together and speak on the phone at least 3-5 times per day.  She raised me on a teacher's income, and we struggled. I never wanted for anything, she inspired my love of education and children.

My husband and I met when I was 18 years old and a freshman at Penn State.  We got married 7 years later, and had a daughter 5 1/2 years after that.  We've been married eight years, and I believe we are soul mates.  My daughter Julianna is my heart and soul. My daughter was born in March 2009, nine weeks early weighing just 2 lbs. 12 oz, and measuring a mere 14 in. long.  Despite her early arrival, she has no lasting effects, besides being petite.  I have a few close friends and family that are a strong support system for me.  I was recently blessed with two godsons Caiden & Christopher, they are adorable.  Julianna considers them her little brothers and they adore her as well.  Then again, look at that face, who wouldn't???  

Final thoughts...

It astounds me that we have made it through another class already.  When I began this journey at another institution, I felt that I'd never be able to succeed.  This program through Walden University has re-ignited my desire to continue my Master's degree in Early Childhood Education. 

This class by Dr. Kien has really been beneficial, not only as a refresher of child development, but to take that basic learning and apply it to my work as a professional.  I feel that I have learned more about myself in the last weeks as well.  Additionally, I have used the articles, and topics as conversation starters with my staff as well as the families we serve.

I find it difficult to choose just two classmates blogs that I would recommend.  I believe that our dedication to early childhood education, as well as our own experiences in the field bring an immense amount of knowledge to our discussions.

I would recommend the following blogs:

Amy P.~ http://butterflychildhood.blogspot.com/
Angela S.~ http://asalasecsblog.blogspot.com/
Ashleigh W.~ http://southernsoulrising.blogspot.com/
Crystal R.~ http://crystaleducation.blogspot.com/
Rene M.~ http://musicwithmoss.blogspot.com/
Shikisha S. ~ http://developingearlychildhood.blogspot.com
Wanda M.~ http://stuckngermany.blogspot.com/


Finally, to end this class I would like to share additional quotes that inspire me to continue my work in Early childhood education:

"Once children learn how to learn, nothing is going to narrow their mind. The essence of teaching is to make learning contagious, to have one idea spark another." -- Marva Collins

"They may forget what you said but they will never forget how you made them feel." - Carol Buchner

My favorite:  "A hundred years from now, it will not matter what kind of car I drove, what kind of house I lived in, how much money I had in the bank...but the world may be a better place because I made a difference in the life of a child." -- Forest Witcraft

Thank you all for sharing in this journey. 

Cognitive intelligence assessment

Cognition grows substantially during the middle childhood years.  According to Berger, "there are advances in reaction time, attention, and automatization during these years" (2009, p. 321).  During the Middle Childhood years, a significant amount of testing occurs between aptitude and achievements tests for children.  Some of the aptitude tests that typically occur in school age children is the Intelligence Quotient (IQ), and Emotional Intelligence Quotient (EQ).  Additionally, achievement tests occur in the middle childhood years.  Although achievement tests have been done for many years, there has been a significant push for them since the law "No Child Left Behind Act".  These tests have been developed for "reading, writing, mathematics, and science and norms that are developed for children of specific ages" (Berger, 2009, p. 323).

The focus in Asian countries is that children spend the majority of there time in educational facilities.  They are required to attend school, and typically score higher on both achievement and aptitude tests.  The focus on these children's education is significant, and positive behaviors are more prevalent in Asian countries.  According to the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development, "(these countries) benefit from a cultural emphasis on education, investments in teacher quality and equitable funding of schools regardless of family income" (Hechinger, 2010).  In addition, in Finland, the test scores are higher than other parts of the world.  Many believe that this is because Finland has made education through high school a requirement (Asia Society, 2010).  One of the most intriguing videos that I've ever seen is about the educational systems in our world.  It is called Did you know?  Shift happens (2006).

Children throughout the world are assessed to develop a better understanding of their development.  Aptitude and achievement tests enable educators to develop better curriculum for the students they serve.

References:

Asia Society. (2010).  What accounts for Finland's high student achievement rate?  Retrieved from http://asiasociety.org/education/learning-world/what-accounts-finlands-high-student-achievement-rate.

Berger, K.A. (2009). The Developing Person through Childhood (5th ed.). New York, NY: Worth Publishers.

Burns, K. (2010). Japan and its standardized test-based education system.  Retrieved from http://www.japantoday.com/category/commentary/view/japan-and-its-standardized-test-based-education-system.

Fisch, K. (2006). Did you know? Shift happens.  Retrieved from http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ljbI-363A2Q

Hechinger, J. (2010). Asian teens ace global achievement test besting U.S. as Shanghai excels.  Retrieved from http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2010-12-07/asian-teens-ace-global-achievement-test-besting-u-s-as-shanghai-excels.html.

Consequences of life stressors

There are many life stresses that children have to deal with even at a very early age.  From natural disasters, to familial stress all children are bound to have some stress to deal with.  Sometimes, children are exposed to too many problems, and these problems may be hard to overcome.  Violence is especially traumatic to young children.  Today many of our children are born into families that violence is common place.  According to the Children's Defense Fund (1997), in America on an average day, "10 children are murdered, 16 die from guns, 316 are arrested for crimes of violence, and 8,042 are reported abused or neglected".  These numbers are tragic and fifteen years after being published are different.

Recently, in my program we had a 3 year old girl, that was becoming extremely aggressive towards the other children, the staff, and myself.  After speaking to the mother, we found out that the child had witnessed a very violent fight between her parents.  The parents were verbal, and physical in front of the child.  When the child began to show similar tendencies, we coordinated  help to have the child discuss her anger.  Unfortunately, her behavior got so bad, that I had to expel her from my program.  I worry about her well being because I know the challenges she will face throughout life if her mother doesn't receive extra help for her child. 

In Australia, the data regarding violence against children is high as well.  According to the Australian Human Rights Commission (n.d.) "there were over 31,000 reports of abuse to children in 2008-2009" .  Furthermore, violence in television, music and play items is surrounding our children on a regular basis.  Violence can be helped with discussing concerns with others not involved in the issue.  A good example of someone to talk to, would be an early childhood educator.  Our job is to take what children tell us, and alert the proper authorities.


References:

Australian Human Rights Commission. (n.d.) Violence, Harassment and Bullying: children and young people. Retrieved from http://www.hreoc.gov.au/pdf/bullying/VHB_children.pdf

Children's Defense Fund. (1997). Every day in America. CDF REPORTS, 18(2), 15. Washington, DC: CDF.

Breast Feeding

This week's assignment asks us to discuss a health topic that is meaningful to us.  Breast feeding is encouraged around the world as a great source of nutrition for infants and toddlers. Personally, I was never a big advocate for breast feeding before I had children.  I always thought it was "inconvenient", and formula would be so much easier because my husband could field the child.

It all changed three years ago, when I was being rushed into the operating room for an emergency Cesarean section.  My daughter, Julianna born nine weeks premature was so delicate and tiny weighing just 2 lbs. 12oz.  I was encouraged to pump breast milk for her by the nurses in the NICU.  The NICU also had a full time lactation consultant that helped all of the new mothers.  The nurses educated me on the importance of providing breast milk for my daughter.  Once she was able to drink milk through her N/G (Naso-gastrointestinal) tube, my milk was given to her.  She was able to receive the colostrum, and as soon as she was off the tubes, and able to come out of the isolette, I began to nurse her.

I felt so happy that I was able to provide my daughter with nutrition, while forming an incredible bond with her.  Prior to having my daughter, it would not have mattered how many people told me how beneficial breast feeding was; I would have still thought I would use formula.  However, when I had a preemie depending on me to not only feed her, but sustain her I changed my mind forever. 

According to UNICEF, "breastfeeding of children under two years of age has the greatest impact on child survival of all preventive interventions, with the possibility of preventing 1.4 million deaths in children under five in the developing world annually" (UNICEF, 2008).  In addition,  those infants born in southeast Asia are more likely to be breastfed then any other area of the world.  I believe it shows that the need for further education on the benefits of breastfeeding is crucial.  In our industrialized nation, where everything is earned quickly, and spent twice as fast we need to utilize our collective power to encourage new mothers to breastfeed.

Furthermore, since having my own daughter, I have implemented a "breast feeding friendly" facility.  In my program, mothers are encouraged to spend break times visiting and nursing her children.  We provide a rocking chair and a privacy screen for the mothers to allow the mother and child to have a peaceful and satisfying experience.  I will continue to encourage mothers, especially the young mothers that we serve to breastfeed.  I will provide training and information to pregnant parents that also encourages nursing. 

Berger, K. S. (2009). The developing person through childhood (5th ed.). New York, NY: Worth.

Bradford, N. (2005). The miraculous world of your unborn baby.  Chicago, IL: Contemporary Books.

UNICEF. (2008).  Overview of breastfeeding patterns. Retrieved from http://www.childinfo.org/breastfeeding_overview.html.

Kangaroo Care

Since we have had some discussion on Kangaroo care, I decided to share some "kangaroo" pictures of my daughter, husband and I during her time in the NICU.  Also, if you'd like more information I have attached the March of Dimes website regarding many different aspects of parenting preemies (and kangaroo care).

http://www.marchofdimes.com/baby/inthenicu_kangaroocare.html

Birth experiences throughout the world

This week we are asked to discuss our own personal birthing experience, and also research childbirth in another part of the world.

My daughter Julianna was born at just a mere 31 weeks gestation.  She was 2 lbs. 12 oz. when she was born.  She was our miracle baby, despite her early arrival, she was pretty healthy.  My husband Justin and I had tried to have a baby for many years before I found out that I was pregnant.  My pregnancy was far from easy.  I had complications from the very beginning.  I had low progesterone in the beginning.  I had to supplement the low levels just to maintain my pregnancy.  I had allergic reactions to an antibiotic I was given, and by 18 weeks I was diagnosed with gestational diabetes.  Throughout my entire pregnancy, I had high blood pressure (stressful job didn't help), so at 31 weeks I was put on bed rest.  Over the course of those 30+ weeks, I was extra careful for my baby's sake. I followed the doctor's instructions and cautiously went to work. I was terrified. At 31 weeks 1 day, I didn't feel my daughter move in my belly.  I rushed to the triage and was given an immediate ultrasound.  Julianna was in distress, and my blood pressure was gettting extremely high. 


Julianna holding my "pinky" finger

At that point, my doctor looked at me and said "I think it's a good day for a baby".  I was shocked!  As they had my husband and I signing consent forms, a nurse comes in to tell me that the NICU was full, and that they would have to transport my daughter to another hospital 45 minutes away as soon as she was born.  Thankfully, it worked out for her to remain at the hospital where I was.  I had an emergency ceasarian section that day.  She had very few complications, however, she did have to remain in the hospital for 30 days, enough time to allow her to gain weight.  She came home weighing 3 lbs. 14 1/2 oz.

I am so thankful that I had the appropriate medical attention during my pregnancy.  I can almost guarantee that if I lived in another area of the world, I would not have received the same care.  I have attached pictures of Julianna when she was in the hospital.  I have also attached more recent ones.

In Latin America, I have learned that mortality rates are significantly higher for mothers.  According to United Nations population fund, in Latin America, the maternal mortatlity rate is nearly 190 out of 100,000 live births (2003).  In addition, education for new and expectant mothers is lacking in particular areas of Latin America.  Many of these mothers did not receive appropriate education on child birth or child rearing.

References:

Rondon, M. (2004, June). Childbirth is not only complex: it may also be dangerous. World       Psychiatry, 3(2), 98-99.

Maternal mortality update 2002. New York: United Nations Population Fund; 2003.

Week 1- New Class

I'm looking forward to this class.  Finally, I am able to discuss my own experiences with children of all ages.

NAEYC Code of Ethics

The National Association of the Education of Young Children (NAEYC)

Code of Ethics

NAEYC. (2005, April). Code of ethical conduct and statement of commitment. Retrieved May 26, 2010, from    http://www.naeyc.org/files/naeyc/file/positions/PSETH05.pdf

There are many ethical considerations when teaching and dealing with young children.  Some of the most important codes of ethical conduct that I believe are below, however I believe the core values have to be of the utmost importance. 

Core Values

-Appreciate childhood as a unique and valuable stage of the human life cycle
-Base our work on knowledge of how children develop and learn

-Appreciate and support the bond between the child and family

-Recognize that children are best understood and supported in the context of family, culture, community and society
-Respect the dignity, worth, and uniqueness of each individual (child, family member, and colleague)

-Respect diversity in children, families, and colleagues

-Recognize that children and adults achieve their full potential in the context of relationships that are based on trust and respect

Principles and Ideals of Ethical Conduct

Principle 1.7- 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.  If after such efforts have been exhausted, the current placement does not meet a child's needs, or the child is seriously jeopardizing the ability of other children to benefit from the program, we shall collaborate with the child's family and appropriate specialists to determine the additional specialists to determine the additional services needed to ensure the child's success.

Principle 4.7- When we become aware of a practice or situation that endangers the health, safety, r well-being of children, we have an ethical responsibility to protect children or inform parents and/or others who can

Ideal 1.1- To be familiar with the knowledge base of early childhood care and education and stay informed through continuing education and training

Ideal 2.2- To develop relationships of mutual trust and create partnerships with families that we serve

All of these ideals and principles are important in my career because it is the driving force for me on a daily basis.  We utilize the code of ethics within my program.  We have posted these guidelines and principles in each of our classrooms.  In addition, to posting these ethics, when I hire staff, we go over the code of ethics.  This way all staff in my program understand the importance of leading an ethical career working with young children.



Early Childhood Resources

EDU 6005 Week 5 Resources:

• Administration for Children and Families Headstart’s National Research Conference
• http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/opre/hsrc/
• Center for Child Care Workforce
• http://www.ccw.org/
• Children’s Defense Fund
• http://www.childrensdefense.org/
• Council for Exceptional Children
• http://www.cec.sped.org//AM/Template.cfm?Section=Home
• The Division for Early Childhood
• http://www.dec-sped.org/
• The Erikson Institute
• http://www.erikson.edu/
• FPG Child Development Institute
• http://www.fpg.unc.edu/main/about.cfm
• Harvard Education Letter
• http://www.hepg.org/hel/topic/85
• HighScope
• http://www.highscope.org/
• Institute for Women’s Policy Research
• http://www.iwpr.org/index.cfm
• National Association for the Education of Young Children
• http://www.naeyc.org/
• National Center for Research on Early Childhood Education
• http://www.ncrece.org/wordpress/
• National Child Care Association
• http://www.nccanet.org/
• National Institute for Early Education Research
• http://nieer.org/
• Pre[K]Now
• http://www.preknow.org/
• Voices for America’s Children
• http://www.voices.org/
• WESTED
• http://www.wested.org/cs/we/print/docs/we/home.htm
• Zero to Three: National Center for Infants, Toddlers, and Families
• http://www.zerotothree.org/

Additional Early Childhood Resources:

• The Brazelton Institute
• http://www.brazelton-institute.com/
• Children's Literacy Initiative
• http://cliontheweb.org/
• Council for Professional Recognition
• http://www.cdacouncil.org/
• National Education Association
• http://www.nea.org/home/18163.htm
• Pennsylvania Child Care Association
• http://pacca.org/
• Pennsylvania Early Learning Keys to Quality
• http://www.pakeys.org/pages/get.aspx?page=home

Quotes

Quotes from Early Childhood Education pioneers:

"Attachment to a baby is a long-term process, not a single, magical moment. The opportunity for bonding at birth may be compared to falling in love—staying in love takes longer and demands more work." 
~ T. Berry Brazelton, M.D.

"We know that teachers are the key to good child care - and as long as teachers are undervalued, American children, too, will keep getting less than they deserve."
~ Marcy Whitebook, Ph.D.

Quotes about Inspiration & Motivation:

"No pessimist has ever discovered the secrets of the stars, or sailed to an uncharted land, or opened a new heaven to the human spirit."
~ Helen Keller

"It isn’t success after all, is it, if it isn’t an expression of your deepest energies? "
~ Marilyn French (author)

My current web of family and friends

My husband Justin

My Mom & daughter

My Princess Julianna

My cat Lily

My cat Indigo



My cat Riley

My cat Emme

Our puppy Strawberry

My childhood web

My childhood was pleasant as an only child to a divorcee.  We were best friends and continue to be so to this day.  Above is a picture of my mother, Jeanne holding my daughter on Mother's Day.  We do everything together and speak on the phone at least 3-5 times per day.   Since my parents separated when I was 1 1/2 years old, and divorced by the time I was three it was always just my mother and I.  She raised me on a teacher's income, and we struggled.  I never wanted for anything, she inspired my love of education and children.

The other important figure in my life as a young child was my paternal grandfather.  My father was never really a big part of my childhood, however his father and I were very close.  My grandfather died shortly after my 19th birthday.  Although he had cancer throughout his body, he drove from Florida to attend my high school graduation.  That was the type of man he was.  My only regret, is that my husband and daughter will have never had the chance to meet him.  My husband reminds me of him because of his compassion, and love.

I had close friends and family that were a strong web for me as well.  In addition, I grew up with animals which always helped me get through my days.

Week 3 already

I can't believe I am getting ready to begin my third week of class.  I feel that I have definitely chosen the right University.  It's wonderful to be in class with a group of people that are passionate about the Early Childhood field.

Quotes about the field that I love!

Early Childhood education and the development of young children inspire me to work tirelessly to encourage better understanding of the importance of the field that I love.

Below you will find some of my favorite quotes about education, and the education of young children:

• "Free the child's potential, and you will transform him into the world."- Maria Montessori
• "Tell me and I forget. Show me and I remember. Involve me and I understand."- Chinese proverb
• "To know how to suggest is the great art of teaching. To attain it we must be able to guess what will interest; we must learn to read the childish soul as we might a piece of music. Then, by simply changing the key, we keep up the attraction and vary the song."
  -Henri Frédéric Amiel 

Family Picture

My husband and I

Julianna

Julianna is my heart and soul.  My daughter was born in March 2009, nine weeks early weighing just 2 lbs. 12 oz, and measuring a mere 14 in. long.  She is quite a character!  Despite her early arrival, she has no lasting effects, besides being petite. I guess having a mother that is involved in Early Childhood Education played some role in that, too.  She loves to draw, paint, read, sing, dance, count, give hugs, and talking! Attached you will see some of her pictures...

Early Childhood Education

I have been in the field of ECE for over 14 years.  Each day has its challenges, and its successes.  Although, many times I am challenged by the lack of appreciation for the field as a whole, my heart knows the importance of what I do.

In addition to being in the field of ECE professionally; I am in the field personally.  I have a daughter that will be 3 in March.  What a joy she is! 

New endeavor

I am looking forward to beginning my coursework for my Master's degree.  I think that it will benefit my life both personally and professionally.