What diversity means to me….
I see the children’s colorful faces,
looking different in every way,
I wonder where they came from
and where are they going every day.
Each person has a different destiny and
Journey they must decide
Each person must go to school and
Learn to read, subtract add and multiply.
After learning your alphabet and numbers
You will learn how to socialize
You will meet new friends along the way,
And learn where they were born and reside.
While learning a person’s background you will
Learn more about their culture and their way of life.
Learn about their customs and the hardships and shrifts.
Last of all diversity deals with being different and unique,
Being confident in all you do and knowing what you think is right.
Knowing each person has a destiny and a legacy that must live on
Starts right in the hands of diversity and a person’s right to be different and unique
while staying where they belong.
Monday, December 19, 2011
Sunday, December 11, 2011
"We Don't Say Those Words in Class!"
Being an educator is a great way to understand how children work. I also get the opportunity to guide children’s behavior and learning. Working in the classroom as a three year old teacher gives you multiple opportunity to hear the funny things that children say. At times we have to change what children say and what they think. I often use literature and reading materials to show children about the proper things to do and say at all times.
For example, in our three year old classroom we had a child that wore glasses to school every day. Many children saw the glasses and they understood that children and adults use the glasses to see better. However, after a doctor appointment the children went to the child came to school with a patch over her left eye. When the child came into the classroom with her parent every child stopped and stared at the child. One child went up to the child and the parent and said “Did Madison go to the doctor to have her eye taken out. She looks like a one eye-pirate.” I felt awful when the child called the other child this horrible name. After the child made this comment, I knew that I had to change the conversation immediately. I immediately gave the child and the classroom the eye that let him know to move away immediately.
Working in this classroom with children that needed to understand the importance of not teasing or calling other children names is so important. I know that it is so important to explain to children that name calling is so hurtful. I want to teach children that words hurt.
For example, in our three year old classroom we had a child that wore glasses to school every day. Many children saw the glasses and they understood that children and adults use the glasses to see better. However, after a doctor appointment the children went to the child came to school with a patch over her left eye. When the child came into the classroom with her parent every child stopped and stared at the child. One child went up to the child and the parent and said “Did Madison go to the doctor to have her eye taken out. She looks like a one eye-pirate.” I felt awful when the child called the other child this horrible name. After the child made this comment, I knew that I had to change the conversation immediately. I immediately gave the child and the classroom the eye that let him know to move away immediately.
Working in this classroom with children that needed to understand the importance of not teasing or calling other children names is so important. I know that it is so important to explain to children that name calling is so hurtful. I want to teach children that words hurt.
Sunday, November 20, 2011
Gender, Gender Identity, and Sexual Orientation
Working in the field of education has taught me a lot about families and working with other cultures. I know that it is important to work with others and accept them for how they are. I know that being a teacher, I have seen many different types of family structures.
To answer the questions listed above I have experienced families that feel that they do not want their children to interact with families from different cultures and family structure. I had a family that had two mothers that raised a son, as well as I had a family with two Caucasian fathers and they raised a African American baby boy. I felt that both instances were hard for the other families to adapt to. I feel that I made the situation easy just by having literature and information on ways to bring in families from different cultures in to the environment. I had to get permission from the families to display and read materials that focused on same-sex partner families. I must say that we did lose some families due to the fact that they were uncomfortable with the situation.
I know that some of the families were uncomfortable about the issue and they used negative and homophobic terms to ease the pain. I did have to speak to many of the families to assure them that were using appropriate methods to teach children. I did assure then that we only respect different cultures not bring other children into these beliefs.
After I talked to the families about my plan, most of the other families did trust that I would not harm or force their child to do anything that is not aligned with their family culture.
To answer the questions listed above I have experienced families that feel that they do not want their children to interact with families from different cultures and family structure. I had a family that had two mothers that raised a son, as well as I had a family with two Caucasian fathers and they raised a African American baby boy. I felt that both instances were hard for the other families to adapt to. I feel that I made the situation easy just by having literature and information on ways to bring in families from different cultures in to the environment. I had to get permission from the families to display and read materials that focused on same-sex partner families. I must say that we did lose some families due to the fact that they were uncomfortable with the situation.
I know that some of the families were uncomfortable about the issue and they used negative and homophobic terms to ease the pain. I did have to speak to many of the families to assure them that were using appropriate methods to teach children. I did assure then that we only respect different cultures not bring other children into these beliefs.
After I talked to the families about my plan, most of the other families did trust that I would not harm or force their child to do anything that is not aligned with their family culture.
Saturday, October 29, 2011
Final Blog Post
I would like to say thank you to all of the classmates that have shared thier wisdom and oponions about the proper ways to become a better communicator. I have learned the importance of understanding that communication comes in many forms and we have to be aware that body language can speak for itself. I will continue to be positive and speak with parents in a pofessional and open manner. I would often refer to the methods of communicating if problems arise.
To everyone: I wish you much success in your future endevors. !!!
Erica Watson
To everyone: I wish you much success in your future endevors. !!!
Erica Watson
Saturday, October 22, 2011
Non-Verbal Cues- Week 2 Assignment
The television show that I decided to watch was House. I normally do not watch this show because it has definitely made a dramatic change in the last few years. One additional thing is that the characters have change as well as their job titles. It was refreshing to watch the show without the sound however I did get lost due to the fact that I couldn’t hear anything. The beginning of the show started with a serious yet fast pace scene that resulted in a child falling out during a soccer game. While watching the show without sound. I noticed that the characters seem to fight and argue a lot while saving people’s lives. This was very obvious even without sound. I also felt that the lead character in the show really had feelings for his co-worker due to the fact that he walked differently and acted differently around her.
After about 30 minutes I decided to turn on the sound and begin to watch the show with sound. I noticed that the people were discussing the problems and issues of the clients. I feel that the characters had a funny way of showing their appreciation and love for the other people on the show. I feel that the nonverbal ways that the characters acted gave a sense of unity and friendship.
I feel that this activity gave me insight into the ways that people communicate without using verbal cues. I think that many people need to try this activity in any form. It will give people an insight into the ways that people act without speaking.
After about 30 minutes I decided to turn on the sound and begin to watch the show with sound. I noticed that the people were discussing the problems and issues of the clients. I feel that the characters had a funny way of showing their appreciation and love for the other people on the show. I feel that the nonverbal ways that the characters acted gave a sense of unity and friendship.
I feel that this activity gave me insight into the ways that people communicate without using verbal cues. I think that many people need to try this activity in any form. It will give people an insight into the ways that people act without speaking.
Saturday, October 15, 2011
Team Building
While thinking about the adjourning phase of the groups that I have worked with in the past, I have to focus my attention on the importance of working in a positive manner with all of the people in my group. The aspect of the groups that made for the hardest good bye would have to be the forming and storming part. Due the fact that each member of the group had a different problem or issue, I found it hard to end the activity. I believe that the groups that are high-performing are hardest to leave. I feel that a good group is so hard to find and keep. I would have loved to keep together my group in that class and continue work in this class.
I wish that I had experienced working a more positive group during my first group/team project at Walden University. I feel that if I would have had a positive experience I would have engrossed the opportunity in the future. Working on my master’s degree and taking similar courses had gave me the opportunity to learn more about the positive methods of teaching and working in a team. It has shown me how to think outside of the box and work with a different variety of people in the filed of education. I am so thankful for this program.
I think that adjourning is an essential part of teamwork because this is a method of concluding or ending a project. It is the most important part of the teamwork process.
I wish that I had experienced working a more positive group during my first group/team project at Walden University. I feel that if I would have had a positive experience I would have engrossed the opportunity in the future. Working on my master’s degree and taking similar courses had gave me the opportunity to learn more about the positive methods of teaching and working in a team. It has shown me how to think outside of the box and work with a different variety of people in the filed of education. I am so thankful for this program.
I think that adjourning is an essential part of teamwork because this is a method of concluding or ending a project. It is the most important part of the teamwork process.
Saturday, October 8, 2011
Nonviolent Communication and Conflict Management
I have a positive work environment and I love my job, however, I have recently ran into a speed bump. Due to the economy, my non-profit organization is experiencing funding challenges. Due to these challenges, we are requiring that teachers take pay cuts and still continue to do the same amount of work in the center, if not more. I feel that this has created a harsh, yet tolerable situation. Georgia is one of the cities with the highest unemployment rate and I am happy to have a job.
I am the person that collects the fees and I am required to ask and request families to pay their fees in a timely fashion. With this in mind, I often have to take a stand and require that families pay their fees or withdraw their child. This is one of the hardest things to do in my job. I recently had a conflict with a parent that felt our fees were too high and she could not afford the program. She is receiving assistance however, she needs more assistance. Even though I felt her pain, I still had to require that she paid her fees no matter what.
With this situation in mind, I would use the win-win method to solve this conflict. I would also use mapping method. I feel that these methods would help us to come up with a plan of action and write down a plan. We could use this as the payment plan to assist with paying her fees, without withdrawing her child. Even though I came up with a payment plan the parent was required to pay the same fee amounts.
Classmates if you were in my situation, what would you do differently?
Erica
I am the person that collects the fees and I am required to ask and request families to pay their fees in a timely fashion. With this in mind, I often have to take a stand and require that families pay their fees or withdraw their child. This is one of the hardest things to do in my job. I recently had a conflict with a parent that felt our fees were too high and she could not afford the program. She is receiving assistance however, she needs more assistance. Even though I felt her pain, I still had to require that she paid her fees no matter what.
With this situation in mind, I would use the win-win method to solve this conflict. I would also use mapping method. I feel that these methods would help us to come up with a plan of action and write down a plan. We could use this as the payment plan to assist with paying her fees, without withdrawing her child. Even though I came up with a payment plan the parent was required to pay the same fee amounts.
Classmates if you were in my situation, what would you do differently?
Erica
Saturday, October 1, 2011
My Evaluation of my communication skills.
I often view the ways that people look at me. It is important to know that people feel that I am an effective communicator and I help solve problems. I feel that my boss is a great communicator. I try to mimic the ways that she works with staff and handle certain issues and challenges. When my boss evaluated me, she stated that I need to acquire firmer leadership skills and stand my ground. I feel that this is helpful information that will help me in my professional and personal life.
I personally feel that I am a people person, and I am aware that I need to work on leading people to move in the right way. This is one major skill that I am currently working on. In order to gain these skills, I created three goals that will assist me through this journey. The three goals that I created are:
1. Be firm and stand your ground when desiring to influence others to accept my point of view. Do not back down.
2. Continue to be respectful to others and their view points. Argue fairly by arguing the facts instead of opinions and gossip.
3. Be confident in my decision making. Become comfortable with discussing topics and concepts that I may not be familiar with.
I feel that these goals will help me to stay focus and strive for my goal.
I personally feel that I am a people person, and I am aware that I need to work on leading people to move in the right way. This is one major skill that I am currently working on. In order to gain these skills, I created three goals that will assist me through this journey. The three goals that I created are:
1. Be firm and stand your ground when desiring to influence others to accept my point of view. Do not back down.
2. Continue to be respectful to others and their view points. Argue fairly by arguing the facts instead of opinions and gossip.
3. Be confident in my decision making. Become comfortable with discussing topics and concepts that I may not be familiar with.
I feel that these goals will help me to stay focus and strive for my goal.
Saturday, September 24, 2011
Communication in a culturally diverse world!
When I think about diversity I often refer back to my current program. I work in a program with a huge variety of families with different backgrounds, culture and income levels. I find myself having to act and conduct myself with some families in a different way. I feel it is important to give every family the same respect at all times. I know that certain families expect a certain amount of respect and they feel that they should be handled in a different way than other families.
For example, I have families that are high income families and they feel that they should receive more services and individualized just because they pay more and they are in the highest category. I feel that this is so untrue. I try to treat each family the same, no exceptions. I also have some families that are low income and they feel they should receive free childcare just because they are low income and it should still be the same quality as every family. Again, I saw that all families should be treated the same way. The last example is the families that we have in our center that are from another country. We have some families that feel that they are exempt from following certain rules because of their diversity. I feel that we have to have a happy medium. All families should follow the rules and regulations of our program.
The three ways that I feel that I should use to help me communicate more effectively are to :
- Listen to the families and give them my undivided attention.
- Respect each family and request and cultural decisions while the child is in my care.
- I want to be more aware of the ways that I react and look at families. For example, I want to be more conscious of my facial expressions when dealing with families’ issues and concerns.
For example, I have families that are high income families and they feel that they should receive more services and individualized just because they pay more and they are in the highest category. I feel that this is so untrue. I try to treat each family the same, no exceptions. I also have some families that are low income and they feel they should receive free childcare just because they are low income and it should still be the same quality as every family. Again, I saw that all families should be treated the same way. The last example is the families that we have in our center that are from another country. We have some families that feel that they are exempt from following certain rules because of their diversity. I feel that we have to have a happy medium. All families should follow the rules and regulations of our program.
The three ways that I feel that I should use to help me communicate more effectively are to :
- Listen to the families and give them my undivided attention.
- Respect each family and request and cultural decisions while the child is in my care.
- I want to be more aware of the ways that I react and look at families. For example, I want to be more conscious of my facial expressions when dealing with families’ issues and concerns.
Saturday, September 17, 2011
Being a great communicator!
For your blog this week, think of someone (e.g., family member, celebrity, politician, friend, or professor) who demonstrates competent communication within a particular context. What behaviors does this person exhibit that make him or her effective? Would you want to model some of your own communication behaviors after this person? Why or why not.
I believe that communication is key to sending a message or explaining exactly what is on your mind. I feel that some people express themselves through communication better than others. It takes some skill to communicate to large groups of people effectively. I feel that one person that I know that communicates in a positive manner is my good friend and boss. She has a way with words. Being her assistant I often try to duplicate some of the tactics that she displays and uses with our staff. I try to imitate her savvy method of disciplining staff and solving critical issues with parents. I feel she is a great communicator because she gets her point across no matter what and the staff and parents respect her and follows her wishes. This is a great skill that I would love to learn.
I believe that communication is key to sending a message or explaining exactly what is on your mind. I feel that some people express themselves through communication better than others. It takes some skill to communicate to large groups of people effectively. I feel that one person that I know that communicates in a positive manner is my good friend and boss. She has a way with words. Being her assistant I often try to duplicate some of the tactics that she displays and uses with our staff. I try to imitate her savvy method of disciplining staff and solving critical issues with parents. I feel she is a great communicator because she gets her point across no matter what and the staff and parents respect her and follows her wishes. This is a great skill that I would love to learn.
Sunday, July 10, 2011
My Family Culture
A description of the three items you would choose
With this assignment in mind, I though carefully about how I could capture my family’s identity and culture with only three items. I often contemplated about the items that I would take. After thinking long and hard I would have to take family photo albums, the bible and my laptop (with Internet). The photo album would be books that had my family’s history and events that were captured by camera. I would also take the bible so I could often refer to the bible for comfort and spiritual guidance. The laptop is an item that would allow me to refer to major works of art, books about great black inventors and achievers and my African history.
How you would explain to others what each of these items means to you
I know that these items are important to me because they describe who I am. I was raised reading the bible and I need to have mementos that reflect upon my family and those who are no longer with me. The laptop would allow me to show others and explain how my culture has made me into the person I am today. I would use all of these tangible items to show others about me and my history through time so it will not be forgotten.
Your feelings if, upon arrival, you were told that you could only keep one personal item and have to give up the other two items you brought with you
I would be devastated to discover that I could only keep one item after I have thought so long about what items I would pick to take with me on this journey. If I had to give up the other two items I brought I would keep the laptop and give the bible to another person who needed spiritual guidance and I would give someone my photos so they would have an opportunity to see how my family lived and cultural events that were very important to my family.
Any insights you gained about yourself, your family culture, diversity, and/or cultural differences in general, as a result of this exercise,
This activity has really had me think about items and their importance in my life. I know many families that have been misplaced due to emergencies or tragic events in their life. This assignment has opened my eyes and showed me that I need to reevaluate myself and my culture and think about things that are of importance when a major tragedy occurs.
With this assignment in mind, I though carefully about how I could capture my family’s identity and culture with only three items. I often contemplated about the items that I would take. After thinking long and hard I would have to take family photo albums, the bible and my laptop (with Internet). The photo album would be books that had my family’s history and events that were captured by camera. I would also take the bible so I could often refer to the bible for comfort and spiritual guidance. The laptop is an item that would allow me to refer to major works of art, books about great black inventors and achievers and my African history.
How you would explain to others what each of these items means to you
I know that these items are important to me because they describe who I am. I was raised reading the bible and I need to have mementos that reflect upon my family and those who are no longer with me. The laptop would allow me to show others and explain how my culture has made me into the person I am today. I would use all of these tangible items to show others about me and my history through time so it will not be forgotten.
Your feelings if, upon arrival, you were told that you could only keep one personal item and have to give up the other two items you brought with you
I would be devastated to discover that I could only keep one item after I have thought so long about what items I would pick to take with me on this journey. If I had to give up the other two items I brought I would keep the laptop and give the bible to another person who needed spiritual guidance and I would give someone my photos so they would have an opportunity to see how my family lived and cultural events that were very important to my family.
Any insights you gained about yourself, your family culture, diversity, and/or cultural differences in general, as a result of this exercise,
This activity has really had me think about items and their importance in my life. I know many families that have been misplaced due to emergencies or tragic events in their life. This assignment has opened my eyes and showed me that I need to reevaluate myself and my culture and think about things that are of importance when a major tragedy occurs.
Saturday, June 11, 2011
Research that Benefits Children and Families—Uplifting Stories
Share a positive example of the effects of research on children and/or families: Perhaps you can provide real-life examples of research benefits to children and/or families; maybe you are familiar with stories of people who have been positively affected by research; or you came across a published research article concerning children or families which you find exciting and would like to share with your colleagues.
When I think of an uplifting story about the effects of research on children on children I often think back to one of my son’s friends. This child is the same age and grade as my son. While the children were in the 2nd grade I begin to notice certain behaviors and things that lead me to believe that my son had some challenges in school. Due to the fact that I am an educator, I was able to see the signs and get my son help as soon as possible. I notified the teacher and we had him evaluated immediately. After his evaluation, I noticed some of the same challenges and issues with his friend. I immediately gave the friends parents research based articles that expressed some of the concerns that they did display. The parents met with the teachers and they began to understand what was going on with their child and the issues that were affecting the child. The parents received a referral from the child’s teacher and he was tested and the results revealed that he had challenges that needed to be addressed.
After the parents understood the information that was given, they expressed their overwhelmed joy that their child was going to receive the help that he needed to be successful in school. I truly believe that my expertise and research helped me to help families be their child’s first advocate.
When I think of an uplifting story about the effects of research on children on children I often think back to one of my son’s friends. This child is the same age and grade as my son. While the children were in the 2nd grade I begin to notice certain behaviors and things that lead me to believe that my son had some challenges in school. Due to the fact that I am an educator, I was able to see the signs and get my son help as soon as possible. I notified the teacher and we had him evaluated immediately. After his evaluation, I noticed some of the same challenges and issues with his friend. I immediately gave the friends parents research based articles that expressed some of the concerns that they did display. The parents met with the teachers and they began to understand what was going on with their child and the issues that were affecting the child. The parents received a referral from the child’s teacher and he was tested and the results revealed that he had challenges that needed to be addressed.
After the parents understood the information that was given, they expressed their overwhelmed joy that their child was going to receive the help that he needed to be successful in school. I truly believe that my expertise and research helped me to help families be their child’s first advocate.
Sunday, May 15, 2011
My Research Journey!
The general early childhood research topic that I have chosen to discuss is the importance of the curriculum and how it relates to children’s success in the classroom and the future.
The three related subtopics are:
1. The positive outcomes when parents advocate for their child and believe in the curriculum.
2. Different types of curriculums
3. How teachers relate the curriculum to positive outcomes to teacher training in the classroom.
My personal reason for choosing this topic is to explore and research the reasons that children are prepared and successful in the classroom currently and in the future. I feel that my number one goal is to ensure that parents are their child’s first advocate. I also want the children to become successful in the classroom on the preschool level in hopes of fully preparing them for public school. Creating a positive, loving and nurturing environment is a great foundation for teaching children about the importance of education. The relationships that families have ultimately has a huge effect on the outcome of children in the home and school life. I also feel that the teachers and families should be educated about the curriculum and understand the basis of the curriculum. If these things are done properly then the children will have the opportunity to learn using a positive curriculum that is appropriate for the children and it will allow children to learn and be successful in the classroom environment.
The three ways I anticipate that researching these topics might be significant for young children is because research can prove and explain the proper ways and methods that children can learn. The center that I work at uses the High/Scope curriculum and the research that has been written explains the ways that children learn best through play. This research also helps parents understand the ways that children progress using the curriculum. This is a great way to prove this to parents and show them results and scores of children that learn using this curriculum.
The three related subtopics are:
1. The positive outcomes when parents advocate for their child and believe in the curriculum.
2. Different types of curriculums
3. How teachers relate the curriculum to positive outcomes to teacher training in the classroom.
My personal reason for choosing this topic is to explore and research the reasons that children are prepared and successful in the classroom currently and in the future. I feel that my number one goal is to ensure that parents are their child’s first advocate. I also want the children to become successful in the classroom on the preschool level in hopes of fully preparing them for public school. Creating a positive, loving and nurturing environment is a great foundation for teaching children about the importance of education. The relationships that families have ultimately has a huge effect on the outcome of children in the home and school life. I also feel that the teachers and families should be educated about the curriculum and understand the basis of the curriculum. If these things are done properly then the children will have the opportunity to learn using a positive curriculum that is appropriate for the children and it will allow children to learn and be successful in the classroom environment.
The three ways I anticipate that researching these topics might be significant for young children is because research can prove and explain the proper ways and methods that children can learn. The center that I work at uses the High/Scope curriculum and the research that has been written explains the ways that children learn best through play. This research also helps parents understand the ways that children progress using the curriculum. This is a great way to prove this to parents and show them results and scores of children that learn using this curriculum.
Saturday, March 12, 2011
Websites
Name: NAEYC
Link: http://newsmanager.commpartners.com/naeycae/issues/2011-02-23.html
Website: www.naeyc.org
The organization that I choose to receive newsletters and information was NAEYC.org. The website offers monthly newsletters to centers or programs that are accredited programs. The information that I receive monthly gives me an insight in to the changing rules and standards that are required by NAEYC. The newsletter also gives tips to centers or programs that are interested in being reaccredited with the organizations.
One current issue from the newsletter that I thought was interesting and insightful was the section that discussed programs that may assist or serve military families. The article discussed the many programs that are available for families and the centers. There is also free training that will assist programs with becoming more qualified to work with preschool aged children. These programs will assist the families with helping the young children that are having issues with their parents’ deployments and even reunifications. I feel that this training is desperately needed to assist all families with various issues. I can see or imagine the huge benefits that can be gained with this training program.
I also learned about different job openings that were available in this organization. I feel this is a great way to market and find new employees that are interested in early childhood education.
Link: http://newsmanager.commpartners.com/naeycae/issues/2011-02-23.html
Website: www.naeyc.org
The organization that I choose to receive newsletters and information was NAEYC.org. The website offers monthly newsletters to centers or programs that are accredited programs. The information that I receive monthly gives me an insight in to the changing rules and standards that are required by NAEYC. The newsletter also gives tips to centers or programs that are interested in being reaccredited with the organizations.
One current issue from the newsletter that I thought was interesting and insightful was the section that discussed programs that may assist or serve military families. The article discussed the many programs that are available for families and the centers. There is also free training that will assist programs with becoming more qualified to work with preschool aged children. These programs will assist the families with helping the young children that are having issues with their parents’ deployments and even reunifications. I feel that this training is desperately needed to assist all families with various issues. I can see or imagine the huge benefits that can be gained with this training program.
I also learned about different job openings that were available in this organization. I feel this is a great way to market and find new employees that are interested in early childhood education.
Sunday, March 6, 2011
Professional Contacts and Links
Part I- Establishing Professional Contacts-
I had a late start to this assignment however, I have sent out email to various professional contacts that have not contacted to me recently. I plan to continue to make contact with the professionals.
Even though I haven’t had any luck, I am in contact with colleagues that live in other countries that will assist me with the information needed to be successful with my blog assignment.
Part II. Expanding Resources-
The websites that I choose to research are nbcdi.org and naeyc.org. I chose these websites because I feel that they are essential organizations that will benefit me by offering me training classes and other forms of support for my career. I am a member of both of these organizations and I receive information monthly about updated policies and things that are important to educators in this field. The center that I work at is NAEYC accredited and I feel it is important to stay abreast of new and changing items in the field of education. This website not only caters to educators but it also has a wealth of information that is helpful for families of different structures. It is important for me to referred parents and educators to this website for support and articles that they can use to help educate themselves and their children.
Resources
National Black Child Development Institute
http://nbcdi.org/
(Newsletter: http://nbcdi.org/support/sign-up-for-nbcdi-newsletters/ )
The National Association for the Education of Young Children
http://www.naeyc.org/
(Review also the position statements: http://www.naeyc.org/positionstatements )
I had a late start to this assignment however, I have sent out email to various professional contacts that have not contacted to me recently. I plan to continue to make contact with the professionals.
Even though I haven’t had any luck, I am in contact with colleagues that live in other countries that will assist me with the information needed to be successful with my blog assignment.
Part II. Expanding Resources-
The websites that I choose to research are nbcdi.org and naeyc.org. I chose these websites because I feel that they are essential organizations that will benefit me by offering me training classes and other forms of support for my career. I am a member of both of these organizations and I receive information monthly about updated policies and things that are important to educators in this field. The center that I work at is NAEYC accredited and I feel it is important to stay abreast of new and changing items in the field of education. This website not only caters to educators but it also has a wealth of information that is helpful for families of different structures. It is important for me to referred parents and educators to this website for support and articles that they can use to help educate themselves and their children.
Resources
National Black Child Development Institute
http://nbcdi.org/
(Newsletter: http://nbcdi.org/support/sign-up-for-nbcdi-newsletters/ )
The National Association for the Education of Young Children
http://www.naeyc.org/
(Review also the position statements: http://www.naeyc.org/positionstatements )
Sunday, February 20, 2011
My Supports
My Supports
When I think about supports, three things come to my mind. I thought about God, my family and technology.
I feel that God makes all things possible in my life. I also feel that he provides me with everything I need to stay healthy and maintain my existence in the community. He helps me to continue my education as well as stay needed in my career. I know that he consciously helps me be all that I can be.
The next support that I have is my family. My family supports me in everything I do. I know that my family has my back through thick and thin. If it was not for my family, I know that I would not have the ability to continue my education. My mom is my biggest supporter. She was not able to complete college because she was married and she had to take care of her family. She constantly encourages me to further my education and take it to the limit.
My last support is technology. Technology is a huge part of the world today. Everyone is using technology all around us. Cell phones, computers, email, Facebook and even the internet help to keep the world in the loop. I know that the internet truly helps me because it fi were not for the internet, I would not be able to complete my degree online. Web based education is one of the best things, that I have ever known.
When I think about supports, three things come to my mind. I thought about God, my family and technology.
I feel that God makes all things possible in my life. I also feel that he provides me with everything I need to stay healthy and maintain my existence in the community. He helps me to continue my education as well as stay needed in my career. I know that he consciously helps me be all that I can be.
The next support that I have is my family. My family supports me in everything I do. I know that my family has my back through thick and thin. If it was not for my family, I know that I would not have the ability to continue my education. My mom is my biggest supporter. She was not able to complete college because she was married and she had to take care of her family. She constantly encourages me to further my education and take it to the limit.
My last support is technology. Technology is a huge part of the world today. Everyone is using technology all around us. Cell phones, computers, email, Facebook and even the internet help to keep the world in the loop. I know that the internet truly helps me because it fi were not for the internet, I would not be able to complete my degree online. Web based education is one of the best things, that I have ever known.
Sunday, January 30, 2011
My Connections to Play
Quotes:
1."Children are like wet cement. Whatever falls on them makes an impression.”
Dr. Haim Ginott
I love this quote because it describes how children pick up everything they hear and see. I know that children learn most by what they see on television, radio and in their home environment. This quote should be shared with other because it describes how cautious parents and adults should be when talking around curious children.
2. Children are like sponges, they soak up every thing they hear and see.
Author unknown
# Include two to three pictures of essential play items for your younger self.
When I was younger, the role of play was very important in my life. I went outside daily and played with my two friends, Alice and Natila. I loved them deary and we all worked together to discover our creative side! Our parents all agreed that play and learning was very important. We all went to preschool together and we learned a lot about the importance of being creative and learning through play.
I totally feel that play has drastically changed from when I grew up. Play was considered fun when I was young. I was encouraged to play outside daily and I had some much fun while playing. Today, children have more video games and the use of the internet which distract children from playing outside. I feel that children need fresh air and exercise to stay healthy. Due to the play that I did as a child, I was able to focus more on my work when I went to school as a young child.
1."Children are like wet cement. Whatever falls on them makes an impression.”
Dr. Haim Ginott
I love this quote because it describes how children pick up everything they hear and see. I know that children learn most by what they see on television, radio and in their home environment. This quote should be shared with other because it describes how cautious parents and adults should be when talking around curious children.
2. Children are like sponges, they soak up every thing they hear and see.
Author unknown
# Include two to three pictures of essential play items for your younger self.
When I was younger, the role of play was very important in my life. I went outside daily and played with my two friends, Alice and Natila. I loved them deary and we all worked together to discover our creative side! Our parents all agreed that play and learning was very important. We all went to preschool together and we learned a lot about the importance of being creative and learning through play.
I totally feel that play has drastically changed from when I grew up. Play was considered fun when I was young. I was encouraged to play outside daily and I had some much fun while playing. Today, children have more video games and the use of the internet which distract children from playing outside. I feel that children need fresh air and exercise to stay healthy. Due to the play that I did as a child, I was able to focus more on my work when I went to school as a young child.
Sunday, January 16, 2011
Healthy Helpful Hints to keep children physically fit.
Good nutrition is a very important part of a child’s life. Good nutrition aids with the growth and physical development of a child. It also helps to ensure that children have a healthy and productive life. According to Robertson adequate nutrition during childhood is necessary to maintain overall health and to provide for growth (Robertson, 2007).
Children of different ages require good nutrition and eating habits because each age group requires different nutrients to help the body develop properly and grow. Infants are required to drink enriched milk for meals. The milk that infants’ drink provides all the essential nutrients required for infant to develop into health babies. Feeding babies sugary, sweet juices and other liquids not given by pediatrician can be permanently damaging to a young babies life. Similarly, Roberts states that the growth and development of an infant is directly related to nutrition (Roberts, 2007). It is also important for older infants to be introduced to solid foods at the right time. This is important because introduction to solid foods to early can make the infant have food allergies or intolerances.
Toddlers need foods from each food group to ensure that the child is healthy. Some toddlers may challenge the adult by not eating certain foods. It is important to introduce the toddler to a variety of foods. Introducing these foods will make it easier to develop a variety of foods that the child will be familiarize with and likely to eat more of. Toddlers need to be introduced to finger foods slowly. Food jags are just one type of picky eating that toddlers may display (Tessmer, 2004).
During the preschool age children have become more verbal and aware of the types of foods that the child likes to eat. At this age good nutritional eating habits are important because food fuels the brain and give it the energy to function properly. Children may see different types of foods on television and they may want the foods just because they look fun on television. These foods may not be healthy for the children at all. Children at this age are easily influenced by television advertisings of foods that are poor nutritional choices (Hinden et al., 2004).
Adults should actively help children develop healthy eating habits because they can help educate children to understand the importance of healthy eating habits. Adults can help educate the children to understand the consequences of bad eating habits. This can give children the opportunity to learn about the proper ways to keep themselves healthy as children and even continue into adulthood. The ways that I believe that adults can help develop healthy eating habits in children are positive role modeling, educating and constant supervision.
Cooking can be a fun learning experience for children and adults. This can be an educational time as well as family time that is spent with adults and children. Invite children into the kitchen to prepare the food that they will be eating. This is a great strategy to get children into the habit of eating healthy foods that they helped prepare. Another strategy is to eat as a family with the children. This is a great strategy to get children to eat the same foods as the adults. If the adults model good healthy food habits this will hopefully rub off on the child.
These are three easy fruit recipes that the adult and children can create together. Each of these recipes has fruit items from the food pyramid that helps children fully develop. Each recipe has a high nutritional value that is provided by the variety of fruits that are used. Each recipe is loaded with Vitamin C, calcium, folic acid/ vitamin B9 and fiber. These recipes create a healthy snack for the children and parents to create together.
1. FRUIT POPCICLES:Ice tray Pop cycle sticks One can of your child's favorite fruit Open the can of fruit and take the juice from the can of fruit and add it to the ice tray. Use a Popsicles stick or tooth pick and stick it in the juice and freeze.
2. BANANA SMOOTHIE
Make up your own variations using other fruits and juices.1 small frozen banana, cut into chunks1/2 cup plain low-fat yogurt1/4 cup orange juicePut all ingredients into the blender and whirl until smooth. These arefairly thick. Add more liquid if you want them thinner. Makes 2 servings,each having 125 calories, 213 mg calcium, 10 mg vitamin C, 7 grams protein,and 160 mg sodium.See Simple Snacks for Kids for reference
3. Festive Fruit Salad Serves: 8
1 16-ounce can pineapple tidbits or chunks
1 pint strawberries
2 ripe peaches or nectarines
2 ripe kiwifruit
1 cup blueberries
1 cup raspberries
¼ cup orange juice
1. Open canned pineapple and drain juice; pour fruit into large mixing bowl.
2. Rinse and dry the peaches, kiwi and strawberries.
3. Cut green stems off strawberries, then cut each strawberry into slices.
4. Cut the peach in half; twist the pit until it comes out.
5. Cut peach halves into slices. Cut slices into smaller pieces, if desired.
6. Cut kiwi into coins, then cut each coin in half.
7. Add strawberries, peaches and kiwi to pineapple; stir to mix fruit.
8. Gently stir in blueberries and raspberries.
9. Pour orange juice over mixed fruit.
10. Refrigerate until ready to serve
References:
Hinden, T., Contento,I., & Gussow, J. (2004). A media literature nutrition education curriculum for Head Start parents about the effects of television advertising on their children’s food request. Journal of the American Dietetic Association, 104(2), 192-198.
Robertson, C. (2007). Safety, Nutrition, & Health in Early Education. Thomson Delamar Learning. New YorkTessmer, K. (2004) Food jags. Discovery Channel. Retrieved January 15, 2011, from http://health.discovery.com/encyclopedias/illnesses.html?article=1905
Children of different ages require good nutrition and eating habits because each age group requires different nutrients to help the body develop properly and grow. Infants are required to drink enriched milk for meals. The milk that infants’ drink provides all the essential nutrients required for infant to develop into health babies. Feeding babies sugary, sweet juices and other liquids not given by pediatrician can be permanently damaging to a young babies life. Similarly, Roberts states that the growth and development of an infant is directly related to nutrition (Roberts, 2007). It is also important for older infants to be introduced to solid foods at the right time. This is important because introduction to solid foods to early can make the infant have food allergies or intolerances.
Toddlers need foods from each food group to ensure that the child is healthy. Some toddlers may challenge the adult by not eating certain foods. It is important to introduce the toddler to a variety of foods. Introducing these foods will make it easier to develop a variety of foods that the child will be familiarize with and likely to eat more of. Toddlers need to be introduced to finger foods slowly. Food jags are just one type of picky eating that toddlers may display (Tessmer, 2004).
During the preschool age children have become more verbal and aware of the types of foods that the child likes to eat. At this age good nutritional eating habits are important because food fuels the brain and give it the energy to function properly. Children may see different types of foods on television and they may want the foods just because they look fun on television. These foods may not be healthy for the children at all. Children at this age are easily influenced by television advertisings of foods that are poor nutritional choices (Hinden et al., 2004).
Adults should actively help children develop healthy eating habits because they can help educate children to understand the importance of healthy eating habits. Adults can help educate the children to understand the consequences of bad eating habits. This can give children the opportunity to learn about the proper ways to keep themselves healthy as children and even continue into adulthood. The ways that I believe that adults can help develop healthy eating habits in children are positive role modeling, educating and constant supervision.
Cooking can be a fun learning experience for children and adults. This can be an educational time as well as family time that is spent with adults and children. Invite children into the kitchen to prepare the food that they will be eating. This is a great strategy to get children into the habit of eating healthy foods that they helped prepare. Another strategy is to eat as a family with the children. This is a great strategy to get children to eat the same foods as the adults. If the adults model good healthy food habits this will hopefully rub off on the child.
These are three easy fruit recipes that the adult and children can create together. Each of these recipes has fruit items from the food pyramid that helps children fully develop. Each recipe has a high nutritional value that is provided by the variety of fruits that are used. Each recipe is loaded with Vitamin C, calcium, folic acid/ vitamin B9 and fiber. These recipes create a healthy snack for the children and parents to create together.
1. FRUIT POPCICLES:Ice tray Pop cycle sticks One can of your child's favorite fruit Open the can of fruit and take the juice from the can of fruit and add it to the ice tray. Use a Popsicles stick or tooth pick and stick it in the juice and freeze.
2. BANANA SMOOTHIE
Make up your own variations using other fruits and juices.1 small frozen banana, cut into chunks1/2 cup plain low-fat yogurt1/4 cup orange juicePut all ingredients into the blender and whirl until smooth. These arefairly thick. Add more liquid if you want them thinner. Makes 2 servings,each having 125 calories, 213 mg calcium, 10 mg vitamin C, 7 grams protein,and 160 mg sodium.See Simple Snacks for Kids for reference
3. Festive Fruit Salad Serves: 8
1 16-ounce can pineapple tidbits or chunks
1 pint strawberries
2 ripe peaches or nectarines
2 ripe kiwifruit
1 cup blueberries
1 cup raspberries
¼ cup orange juice
1. Open canned pineapple and drain juice; pour fruit into large mixing bowl.
2. Rinse and dry the peaches, kiwi and strawberries.
3. Cut green stems off strawberries, then cut each strawberry into slices.
4. Cut the peach in half; twist the pit until it comes out.
5. Cut peach halves into slices. Cut slices into smaller pieces, if desired.
6. Cut kiwi into coins, then cut each coin in half.
7. Add strawberries, peaches and kiwi to pineapple; stir to mix fruit.
8. Gently stir in blueberries and raspberries.
9. Pour orange juice over mixed fruit.
10. Refrigerate until ready to serve
References:
Hinden, T., Contento,I., & Gussow, J. (2004). A media literature nutrition education curriculum for Head Start parents about the effects of television advertising on their children’s food request. Journal of the American Dietetic Association, 104(2), 192-198.
Robertson, C. (2007). Safety, Nutrition, & Health in Early Education. Thomson Delamar Learning. New YorkTessmer, K. (2004) Food jags. Discovery Channel. Retrieved January 15, 2011, from http://health.discovery.com/encyclopedias/illnesses.html?article=1905
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