I believe that learning is happening all the time and is connected through all developmental domains. These include, physical, social/emotional, cognitive and communication. The goal as a educator for me to make their ongoing learning experiences safe, positive, and fun, nurturing the whole child as I attempt to guide them into the next stage of development with confidence in themselves and excitement for continued learning.
I also believe that learning is an experiential activity[1], and that each interaction that the child has with their environment, their family, teachers and relatives provides some learning to the child. Therefore the culture, community and social context in which learning is taking place become the most important aspect to consider when planning a child’s development.
It is also important to understand that children’s backgrounds, experiences and the way they relate to the culture around them and the dominant culture are unique. I believe that educators need to identify the best way to leverage these differences into growth opportunities rather than attempt to eliminate these differences through uniformity of training and experience. My goal as an educator in this context is to help children succeed, not despite the difference of their backgrounds, but because of the advantage that it brings.
I also believe in the importance of grooming children into global citizens that are able to operate effectively in an increasingly multicultural world. The foundations of this approach lie in mutual respect, a non-prejudicial approach to cultures and practices and being open to learning throughout ones life.
The environment plays a major role in the success of an early childhood program. When children feel confident in their environment they are willing to try things, knowing that their efforts are valued. I would like to offer a warm and positive environment to children that utilize the benefits of outdoor as well as indoor environments. Appropriate resources will be incorporated to help not only physical development but also cognitive skills, reading and writing abilities, problem solving skills and foster communication and expression amongst children.
The childcare center plays a critical role in the community by partnering with parents and relatives in the development of a child. The childcare center facilitates a child’s journey to the next stage of their development, while also enabling their parents to participate in the workforce. This dual role of partnership with the parents and the child makes the Child Care Center an important part of the young families that it works with.
I see the relationship between the child, teacher and family as multi-directional and collaborative. It is important to understand and recognize the influence of family, and maintain open lines of communication allowing a free