Thank You

                                        

Thank you, thank you, thank you! Throughout this course I have really learned and understood the process of communication. Communicating with my colleagues has been a wonderful learning experiences. As many of my colleagues I have been in other courses with it is always nice to work with new colleagues as well. My biggest take away is that communication is a transactional process where you influence others while they influence you (O’Hair, 2018).

I am grateful to be able to work with such amazing scholars. I have been able to put theory to practice from the feedback and stories of my colleagues. We are forming a great community of educators and I am happy to be apart of that. The posing questions of my colleagues and the different perspective that everyone brings allows me to engage deeper in my thought process. The drive of my Walden community helps me to continue to push forward with their kind words, motivation, and sincerity. I hope I have done the same in providing feedback to blogs and discussions.

 I hope to continue to see everyone grow as we reach our goal of graduating with our master’s degree. I wish you all the most success in future endeavors and hopefully we may even cross paths one day.

 

O'Hair, D., Wiemann, M., Mullin, D. I., & Teven, J. (2018). Real communication: An introduction (4th. ed). New York: Bedford/St. Martin's.

Adjourning

 

In the "adjourning" stage the project is coming to an end and the team members are moving off into different directions. This stage looks at the team from the perspective of the well-being of the team rather than from the perspective of managing a team through the original four stages of team growth. (Learning Center, 2011)

The adjourning stage is a bittersweet stage of team building. It is a celebration of the task at hand, but it is also a time to say goodbye. I was apart of a discipleship program at church where myself and several other women came together to work on building our relationship with God and building each other up. Through this journey we had to learn to mutually trust and respect one another. We learned how to allow each person to feel valued and be a contributor and we agreed upon goal and vision (Laureate, Education, 2011), just as Dr. Wolfe said makes for great team building.

This was an 18-month journey and it was hard to say goodbye but because of the bond we had created many of us kept in touch with each other. It was hard to leave the group once it had ended because we had spent a lot of time together and we had shared a lot of personal information with one another. I believe this group allowed for growth within all of us because we learned that we are in this together. I was also able to learn a lot about myself and these women encouraged me and supported me when times were rough.

For my colleagues working towards earning their master’s degree, I know we are all routing for each other. This will be a great celebration as we “master it”! I hope that we will all have the opportunity to cross paths and maybe even physically work together.

 

References

Learning Center. (2011). How to build a team using vision, commitment, and trust. Retrieved from http://www.learningcenter.net/library/building.shtml

Laureate Education (Producer). (2011). Team building strategies [Video file]. Retrieved from https://class.waldenu.edu

Conflict Resolution

Conflicts in communication come from not taking the time to understand one another. This also makes me think of perspective. It is often hard to have tough conversations but sometimes these conversations need to be had in order for us to grow. The key is listening even when we do not agree because when we listen, we may hear the truth that will allow us to self-reflect. "Respectful communication among parents and educators provide an environment that encourages learning and growth," (The Compass School, 2017).

I think about a time when a parent did not agree with their child not being able to attend a field trip. The parent was so upset that they did not hear what was actually said. What was said was the child can attend the trip as long as a parent attends with him.  The parent had yelled at me, but I never changed my tone and I waited for the parent to finish speaking. I offered for a meeting later that evening to discuss the situation. When the parent came back that evening he apologized and shared his frustration. By still showing respect to the parent despite them being outraged we were able to come to communicate the details of the trip. Once we learned the child had been showing certain behaviors due to him not taking his medicine because the parents chose not to give it in the summer, we were able to receive an inclusion staff member to help with the child and give one on one attention when needed.

Communication is so important, and we have to be honest even when it may be difficult. We have to an open mind when having conversation. People joyfully and compassionately contribute to each other and resolve conflicts peacefully (Center for Nonviolent Communication, 2020).

References

Center for Nonviolent Communication. (2020). About the Center for Nonviolent Communication. Retrieved from Center for Nonviolent Communication: https://www.cnvc.org/about

The Compass School. (2017, June 21). Magda Gerber's RIE Philosophy.  https://www.thecompassschool.com/blog/magda-gerbers-rie-philosophy/#:~:text=Pickler's%20core%20values%20of%20respect,explorers%2C%20and%20self%2Dlearners.

How You Think I Communicate vs How I Think I Communicate

This week I took three assessments to see how I can communicate and then I had two family members take the same assessment about me. There was a communication anxiety inventory, a verbal aggressiveness scale, and a listening styles profile.  The results from the communication anxiety inventory did not surprise me as I already knew I have really bad anxiety. When my mom filled out the test and had a similar answer to mine, I still was not surprised. Public speaking has always been difficult for me. I prefer one on one and I have to warm up to people. I think it is due to old experiences and the interaction theory process, explains how people change their perception of someone else as they spend more time together (O’Hair, 2018).

The results from the listening styles profile surprised me because I thought I was a better listener. When I took the test, I was action-oriented, and the results said I like clear and straight to the point communication. These results made me seem like I do not care which I felt I am the opposite. When my sister took the test, I was people oriented, and the results said I am empathetic and concerned with the emotions of others. I guess I have two sides of me, but at least other people think I am caring because I think I am for the most part.

My aggressiveness scale was similar when I took the test and my sister did the test. I maintain a good balance between respect and consideration for others. I think about the definition of self-concept, who we think we are, influences our communication.

References

O'Hair, D., Wiemann, M., Mullin, D. I., & Teven, J. (2018). Real communication (3rd. ed). New York: Bedford/St. Martin's.

Rubin, R. B., Palmgreen, P., & Sypher, H. E. (Eds.) (2009). Communication research measures: A sourcebook. New York: Routledge.

• "Communication Anxiety Inventory"
• "Verbal Aggressiveness Scale"

Rubin, R. B., Rubin, A. M., Graham, E. E., Perse, E. M., & Seibold, D. R. (Eds.) (2009). Communication research measures II: A sourcebook. New York: Routledge.

• "Listening Styles Profile-16"

Three Strategies to Help Me Communicate

Three Strategies to Help Me Communicate

1.       Recognize my own patterns of nonverbal behavior

2.       Talk about subtle behavior differences

3.       Remember the Platinum Rule

These three rules will allow me to be aware of my own body language and attitude/ biases.  It will also allow for those tough conversations that need to be had to understand if you are offending someone or not. If we never discuss it, we may never know but I have to be willing to understand that people cannot assume, and I must say how I feel.  Nonverbal behaviors are a process of communicat9ng without words, which can be intentional or unintentional cues that that give about our emotions (O’Hair, 2018). The platinum rule is to treat others the way they want to be treated and that means to get out of my own feelings or head and consider how someone else is feeling.

O’Hair, D., Wiemann, M., Mullin, D. I., & Teven, J. (2018). Real communication: An introduction (4th. ed). New York: Bedford/St. Martin's.

Gonzalez-Mena, J. (2010). 50 strategies for communicating and working with diverse families. Upper Saddle River, NJ: Pearson Education, Inc.

Communication Skills and Styles

Communication is the process by which we use symbols, signs, and behaviors to exchange information (O’Hair, 2018).

This week I watched an episode of Property Brothers on HGTV and I watched first with the sound off and then with the sound.

There was a family who went searching for a house with the realtor but watching with the sound off made it hard to understand what the need of the family was. While I watched the episode, the family found a house and then began to tear it down. The lady who I assumed to be the mother started to cry. As I watched I wonder what made her cry. As I wanted to understand her emotions, I continued to watch the show. While watching the show they found a snake in the home they started to do demolition to. The woman then ran out of the room. As the show continued the contractor called the family back and then showed them the work that was done to the house. The woman began to cry again but this time I assumed they were tears of happiness.

As I watched the show again with the sound on, I realized the family was looking for a new home closer to the city. The house that they did demolition to was her grandparents’ house. This house had so many memories that she was emotional to all the changes but excited for new beginnings. As they tore down walls, they found ants, and a snake. The lady immediately ran out of the room after seeing the snake. I was also able to understand the husbands concern with the cost increasing and the contractor was able to but him at ease by finding more cost-efficient solutions. Once they family was able to come into their newly renovated home, they were so excited. The mom cried again but this time they were tears of joy for new beginnings in the family home.

Through this experience I tried really hard to understand body language and facial expressions, but I realized this task was harder than I thought it would be. I also realize I could have paid more attention to the little details to understand what the family was looking for in their new home. Being attentive is especially important in communicating and listening.

References

O'Hair, D., Wiemann, M., Mullin, D. I., & Teven, J. (2018). Real communication: An introduction (4th. ed). New York: Bedford/St. Martin's.

Someone Who Demonstrates Competent Communication

No communication

takes place until

the other person feels heard

Garrison Wynn

Competent communication is effective and appropriate for a given situation, in which the communicators evaluate and reassess their own communication process (O’Hair, 2018). Mrs. Charisse is a coworker/friend who is an amazing communicator. Mrs. Charisse has behavior flexibility; she is able to figure out how to respond in an appropriate behavior depending on the situation.  Some behaviors that Mrs. Charisse portrays when communicating are being a good listener, understanding, flexible, easy to get along with, and she will not argue with you just to prove she is right. When I think of Mrs. Charisse I think of her warm and caring spirit. I believe she has a gift of helping and connecting with others and that is why she is able to effectively communicate. She truly care and wants to see people succeed.  

I am so happy to have her in my life as she is able to help me with my own communications skills. When I become overwhelmed or when I feel I am not being heard sometimes I will shut down and stop communicating. Mrs. Charisse will always remind me that I cannot get my point across if I just stop talking. She says if I need to take a break then that is fine, but she reminds me I have a lot to say and it needs to be heard.  The more conversations we have help my communication skills. I am naturally a good listener because I never want people to feel they are not being heard. I also generally know how people are feeling. Some behaviors that I would like to take away from Mrs. Charisse are knowing what to say in the right moment. I am excited to learn more about ways to communicate.

References

O'Hair, D., Wiemann, M., Mullin, D. I., & Teven, J. (2018). Real communication: An introduction (4th. ed). New York: Bedford/St. Martin's.

The Personal Side of Bias, Prejudice, and Oppression

My hope is that one day we truly reach a goal of equity, especially in education. Knowledge is the one thing that can never be taking a way from you. We really must take the time to understand ourselves and our own cultures to be able to understand the beliefs of others. They key to this step is understanding, trust, and forgiveness, we have all been deeply hurt by the isms we face in society. Julie Benavides stated that “How can I change someone else before I change myself?” (Laureate Education, 2011).

“I have a dream that one day little black boys and girls will be holding hands with little white boys and girls.”

Martin Luther King Jr., I Have a Dream 

A goal I hope to set in the early childhood field is to build healthy communities through building trust. We have to learn to trust one another in order to see change. Children who have been harmed in the context of a relationship can only be healed in a relationship, but we cannot have relationships without trust. These children then grow to become adults who do not trust which can create a repeating cycle of trust issues, miscommunication, and a lack of forgiveness. The African proverb “it takes a child to raise a village can be better” if it says that it takes a healthy village to raise a healthy child. Nadiyah Taylor says “having compassion for myself and understanding that this work is a lifelong journey” (Laureate Education, 2011).

“Education is for improving the lives of others and for leaving your community and world better than you found it”.

Marian Wright Edelman 

Lastly, I want to thank my colleagues during this course for all of your quality feedback. The thought-provoking discussions has given me perspective in how I view diversity and biases. Louise Derman-Sparks has a vision that it is possible where all people can have access to a quality of life (Laureate Education, 2011).

“An anti-racist person is on a life-long journey that includes forming new understanding of and ways to live her or his racial identity and then increasing commitment to and engagement in anti-racism actions”
 Louise Derman-Sparks

References

Laureate Education (Producer). (2011). Diversity and equity work: Lessons learned [Video file]. 

Retrieved from https://class.waldenu.edu

Great Resources to Check Out:

2020 Leadership & Learning Webinar Series- https://www.cdacouncil.org/pds-quarterly-newsletter/1849-2020-leadership-a-learning-webinar-series

Building Adult Capabilities to Improve Child Outcomes: A Theory of Change- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=urU-a_FsS5Y&t=18s

Welcoming Families From Around the World

The Baptiste family is a family from Haiti and speak French but also English. Their three-year-old daughter will be joining the three-year-old class at Early Learning Center. I want the Baptiste family to feel welcomed and supported while being a part of Early Learning Center. At my center we primarily speak English and must figure out a way to make sure we are culturally responsive to our new family.

Five ways to prepare myself to be culturally responsive towards the Baptiste family is to hold a family conference, find a way to be able to support the child’s home language, individualize my programs curriculum, display of multicultural books and toys around the classroom, and to think about my own biases to ensure I am creating a fair environment.

I would first start with having a family conference to get to know the family. This will help me to know and understand who is a part of the family such as siblings, parents, and anyone else who may be in the home. A family conference will also allow for the family to also get to know me and see the classroom environment. I think this will help create a partnership between the family and myself. This may help the child feel comfortable when the parents are comfortable. Listening for understanding instead of just to answer will make a difference in the partnership.

I would not want the Baptiste family to not communicate with us due to language. I would ask for the family to teach me key words as well as creating a picture card library. Since early childhood programs serve as a two-way bridge between the dominant culture and the child’s home culture (Derman-Sparks, 2010), I want to make sure I am doing all that I can to make that connection.

For young children individualizing and adapting your curriculum according to each child’s home culture is as essential to healthy development as substituting cream cheese for peanut butter is for a child who is allergic to peanuts (Derman-Sparks, 2010). I want to be able meet every child’s needs and if the Baptiste has multiple children attending the center, I will allow time for siblings to see each other to help them feel comfortable and adjust to the new environment.

To feel welcome in a new environment I believe it is helpful to have something familiar. I would inform the Baptiste family that they could donate an item to the classroom to help us understand their culture we would be happy to have it. I also would encourage the family to bring in a family picture and something that could stay in the cubby for the moments to help feel secure. I would have a variety of dolls, puzzles, books, and other materials to represent not only their culture but a numerous amount of cultures to show how people are different. The introduction of learning other cultures will help bring about new discussions and curiosity.

I believe that being open to learning and understanding other people will help me to think about my own culture. This will also help me to check my own biases and see how they can affect my teachings and perception of others.

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).

Laureate Education (Producer). (2011). Family cultures: Dynamic interactions [Video file]. Retrieved from https://class.waldenu.edu

The Personal Side of Bias, Prejudice, and Oppression

     With all the racial injustice going on right now there are several memories that are being created pertaining to prejudice and oppression. A personal experience for me experiencing biases is being a female security officer. I had a man yell at me about me doing my job, but I followed protocol and did not engage further with the man. After yelling at me he proceeded to approach me as if he were going to hit me but when my male colleague walked over to my side the man quickly walked away. 

     Another experienced was being the youngest director for a summer camp and having a parent yell at me saying I was young and did not know what I was doing. He then said his child was being discriminated against because he could not go on a field trip unless a parent went with him. This parent was informed several times of the guidelines for our camp and at this point the child had kicked counselors and thrown furniture. My age had nothing to do with the rules set in place and we also said that his child needed a parent to attend the field trip with him and he could go. The issue was the inconvenience for the parents to take off from work.

     With both experiences I felt singled out because of my gender and age. I was grateful for witnesses who could vouch for me in saying I kept my composure and followed the procedures because I am not sure what would have happened. In both experiences the customers were irate and I had to defend myself in a professional manner. This brought about feelings of anger but also gratitude. I often thought if I had been older or even a man would things have gone differently. I was grateful because I did not feel alone despite what had happened.

     I believe in order for the situations to have changed the men would have had to change their point of view. Trying to receive equity is not always easy. Equity is fair treatment, considering the capacities of individuals, while not discriminating because of their identity (Derman-Sparks, 2010). I also view this situations as what happens when people act off of their emotions. The parent later came back and apologize, and we were able to have a conversation about the trip and he also later shared that his child had special needs. I think maybe he was worried about his child being labeled and chose not to share this information. When he did share, we were able to offer extra assistance for his child through inclusion services. We were able to get an extra counselor so when the child needed one on one time away from the large group, he was able to have that quiet time. We must take time for understanding and actually discussing these issues.

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).

Practicing Awareness of Microaggressions

    When Will it End

Microaggression is defined  as brief everyday indignities; verbal, behavioral, or environmental; communicated intentionally or unintentionally; containing an insulting message; often causes serve psychological stress and harm; reflect views of inferiority/ superiority and inclusion/exclusions; and happen outside the level of awareness of well-intentioned individuals (Laureate Education, 2011).

I can remember a time when my family and I were looking for seats at the airport while waiting for our flight. We sat down leaving a seat between us and an older Caucasian couple. The lady frowned at us as we sat down. She then sucked her teeth and the couple got up and moved to another area. The nonverbal message she gave off was that we could not sit near her because of the color of our skin. In a crowded airport we just wanted to be as comfortable as everyone else while we awaited our flight. To think we have to continuously go through events like this in 2020 is tiring.

As I look at events happening in the world right now it is heart breaking how much hate is in this world. I also think with Covid-19 already creating trauma in our everyday lives we cannot show love as we once were able to comfort one another.  The racism we are feeling is creating hatred in many. I saw a quote that said racism never ended it is just being filmed now. I often feel overwhelmed by all that is going on right now and have a hard time speaking on these matters. I think of my family where I have some law enforcement relatives and some first responders and we are genuinely good people we go out of our way to help others but not only are we scrutinized by the color of our skin but also our careers.

I came across a video that features a woman by the name of Jane Elliott who brings awareness to racism in America. This video to me shows how some people are not willing to change.

References

Laureate Education (Producer). (2011). Microaggressions in everyday life [Video file]. Retrieved from https://class.waldenu.edu

Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bi3iqJykwEo

Perspectives on Diversity and Culture

     I believe culture is where your family is from and where they have grown to become, then mix in experiences from every generation because the world is ever evolving. Culture refers to how particular groups of people live. The way we eat sleep, talk, and even take care of one another (Derman-Sparks, 2010). With this definition culture seems to be defined in many ways depending on a person’s perspective. 

     A colleague of mine says “culture is where you are from and how you were raised”. A friend of mine says “culture is ethical upbringing passed down from generation to generation. A way of life for a group of people or place”. She goes on to explain place because at work, church, school, there are different cultures.

     According to the class resources thus far everyone has a similar definition just worded to fit their perception. I agree with everyone’s definition. It is almost as if culture relates to expectations. Your culture brings about certain expectations, morals, rules as to how we live. Janet Gonzalez-Mena says it may sound clichés but “culture is like an iceberg only the tip of it shows and that is the part we can celebrate but the 90% that we do not see is where the tensions come in from different beliefs” (Laureate Education, 2011).

     Diversity means differences. These differences can be age, ethnicity, class, gender, physical abilities/qualities, race, sexual orientation, as well as religious status, gender expression, educational background, geographical location, income, marital status, parental status, and work experiences. Diversity is also how we accept these differences. That is how I believe culture ties into how we acknowledge differences.

     Thinking about other people’s definition of culture and diversity influenced my own thinking about my workplace and my family and friends. I believe culture is what brings people together at times. Family culture may be different, but we are often intrigued by differences and amazed at the similarities we share with other people.  

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).

Laureate Education (Producer). (2011). Culture and diversity [Video file]. Retrieved from https://class.waldenu.edu

Laureate Education (Producer). (2011). Family cultures: Dynamic interactions [Video file]. Retrieved from https://class.waldenu.edu

My Family Culture

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.

I love my family so much and I value our culture and relationships. Thinking of three things to take with me to a new country is difficult but here are my three things…

1. My grandmother’s photo album

2. Family values

3. A bible

My grandmother’s photo album shares so many memories for our family. My grandmother had 11 children, so I am truly fortunate to have a big family. I would want to be able to view the pictures to revisit wonderful memories. These pictures would allow us to share stories and appreciate one another. I would also take my family values because despite where we end up, I have to my family in my heart. I was brought up to show kindness, and to have compassion for others.  That saying of giving the same respect to the janitor as you do the CEO is how I was raised. Also, my parents showed me how to not judge a book by its cover because we get scrutinized too much as it is and we must be the change you want to see. Last but not least I would take my bible. Life comes with its share of ups and downs and reading God’s word helps me and my family get through good and bad times.

I would show other people better than I could tell them about how much my family culture means to me.  My family culture is important to me and these items represent who we are. Simple gestures from caring greetings to lending a helping hand or even saying a prayer for someone else shows what my family culture is. I am always up for great communication as I like to keep an open mind and learn from others to understand their culture.

I would be hurt if I had to give up something but the items, I picked will always be represented even without they physical item such as the photo album. I would keep my bible as a way to help one another through these hard times.

The insight I have gained about myself is that family means more to me than I realize and that sometimes I may even take them for granted. I have such a strong support system that I would always want to make sure I take time to values and appreciate them. Even with our family culture we still may have different culture based on our environments and experiences. I want to make sure I understand and learn from them as well as others.

When I Think of Research...

Why is your simulation important to the field of early childhood?

Over the past eight weeks creating this research simulation wasn’t easy at first but I had to change my perspective to think of how this would benefit me in my career. My research topic was The Impact on Child Development When Teachers are Prepared. I believe my topic is important because when teachers are not prepared it can cause teachers and children to become stress, there will be a focus on my behavior management than learning, and this could lead to a teacher possibly changing careers.  I want teachers to be happy and enjoy what they are doing. I also want teachers to be knowledgeable as they become a resource for parents and the community.

If you were to conduct your simulation proposal, who would benefit?

I believe children, families, teachers and the community would benefit from my simulation proposal. With prepared teachers optimal learning would be implemented in the classroom from the design of the environment to effective communication with parents. I believe teachers would have a better insight as to why collecting data and how to collect is important.  For programs such as Head Start teachers would be able to help bridge the gap for children entering kindergarten programs. Families would be able to ask questions about development such as what is and why should I be concerned with how my child develops? We as educators have to inquire and gain knowledge to educate others.

What are some of the ways your perceptions of an early childhood professional have been modified as a result of this course?

Some ways my perception of early childhood professionals has been modified due to this research course is that we must continue to do the research to get questions answered and needs met. I had the opportunity to participate in a focus group about investing in early childhood educators, and one of the issue was how teachers feel about obtaining higher education in the early childhood field. It was an eye-opening experience to hear feedback from infant/ toddler teachers at different locations. Many teachers want to pursue more education but financially it is impossible for many. One point they stood out for me was at some places the teacher with a bachelor’s degree was getting paid almost the same amount as someone who only had taken a few education courses. Also, when the pay isn’t increased after earning a degree some teachers go to teach in elementary schools for better pay and benefits.


As always, I thank my colleagues for taking time to read my blog and I appreciate all the feedback. Especially during these uncertain times, I hope everyone stays safe. Here is a video to say keep up the good work whether you are a parent or not and a personal favorite video Every Kid Needs a Champion.

Trochim, W. M., Donnelly, J. P., & Arora, K. (2016). Research methods: The essential knowledge base (2nd ed.). Boston, MA: Cengage Learning.

A Moment to Yourself https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aEmaWIxyhj8

Every Kid Needs a Champion. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SFnMTHhKdkw&t=118s

Research Around the World

 

Our vision: Every young child is thriving and learning.

Our role in achieving this vision is to be an effective advocate for young children and a champion for quality outcomes in early childhood education and care. (Early Childhood Australia, 2020).

Early Childhood Australia is an organization similar to National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC). This organization is an advocate for young children. This organization helps to set a standard for education of young children. They offer publications, membership, professional development and parent resources.  These are all important factors to help share the importance of early childhood. This will be a website I will explore more to see how quality is recognized in other countries.

http://www.earlychildhoodaustralia.org.au/

Positive Example of the Effects of Research on Children and/or Families

The Head Start PFCE Framework is an organizational guide for collaboration among families and Head Start and Early Head Start programs, staff, and community service providers to promote positive, enduring outcomes for children and families. (NCPFCE, 2013)

Working for an Early Head Start (EHS) program has showed me the benefits of building relationships.  Head Start offers a unique whole child/whole family program design coupled with a delivery system that includes local programs, national standards, monitoring, professional development, and family engagement (NHSA, 2020). Through child development research we can create prevention, health education, and intervention programs, help communities plan for services for children and their families, and determine what additional research studies are needed (CDC, 2020). Looking at the criteria that meets child development research and the goal of Head Start I can see how research benefits children and families.

Head Start programs are a resource for the community. These programs help build and encourage positive- parent child relationships.  Working toward Positive Parent-Child Relationships Outcome, providers and programs can 1) provide emotional and concrete support to parents, 2) respect diverse parenting styles, 3) value cultural differences and home languages, 4)  reinforce the importance of fathers and other co- parents, 5)  help parents connect with other parents and community members and resources, and 6) model warm, responsive relationships by engaging in these relationships with parents and other family members (NCPFCE, 2013).

Since August I have seen parents become more confident in being an advocate for their child. Parents have formed relationship with other parents and been support for one another. Through the modeling of positive relationships, children are then able to build relationships with their peers. Research shows that when families are isolated, lack resources, and live with greater stress and instability, the risk of negative child health and behavioral outcomes is higher. Children’s development can be thrown off track when parents are highly stressed or lack social support, or when they see their child’s temperament as difficult (NCPFCE, 2013).  With the current pandemic many Head Start programs in my area are still trying hard to ensure families have the resources and support they need.

References

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2020). Child Development Research. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/childdevelopment/research.html  

The National Center on Parent, Family, and Community Engagement. (2013). Positive Parent-Child Relationships. Retrieved from https://eclkc.ohs.acf.hhs.gov/sites/default/files/pdf/rtp-parent-child-relationships.pdf

NHSA Why Head Start. (2020). Retrieved from https://www.nhsa.org/why-head-start/why-it-matters

My Personal Research Journey

The development of young children is an important goal to me. Children need safe and caring environments but sometimes that isn’t always the case. I currently work for an Early Head Start program which serves low-income families and sometimes these children and families come with trauma. Trying to help these children and families cope and overcome their trauma sometimes can be overwhelming. In turn behavior guidance has become a new focus for me. According to Teachstone behavior guidance is how teachers support children’s positive behaviors, help children understand classroom expectations, and manage classrooms in a way that enables children to develop self-regulation skills and actively participate in classroom activities.

Through the help of a new understanding of quality research, I used NAEYC articles to help guide me with finding information to help with positive guidance. “Young children benefit when teachers and families establish healthy partnerships and define common goals for children. (Isik-Ercan, 2017). When it comes to behavior guidance, I think modeling becomes a great way for children to understand acceptable behavior.

Behavior guidance allows requires me to understand developmentally appropriate behaviors. In order to make decisions about the well-being and education of children based on child development and learning; individual characteristics/ experiences; and social and cultural contexts (NAEYC, 2009). Once understood about developmentally appropriate behaviors then behavior guidance can be accomplished through regulating feelings and developing assertiveness and communications strategies.

I plan on continuing to research more on this topic and I work with two-year-old who are turning three and are developing rapidly and showing new behaviors that may sometimes seem challenging but are age appropriate.

I found this video that shares a little more insight on behavior guidance. I think this is a great program they have implemented. 

References

Crump, S. (2016). Toddler’s “Behavior Guidance” & Pre-K’s “Behavior Management”: They're Like a PB&J Sandwich. Teachstone. Retrieved from https://info.teachstone.com/blog/class-pre-k-toddler-behavior-guidance-management-comparison

Isik-Ercan, Z. (2017). Culturally Appropriate Positive Guidance with Young Children. NAEYC. Retrieved from https://www.naeyc.org/resources/pubs/yc/mar2017/culturally-appropriate-positive-guidance

Ormondroyd, J., Engle, E., & Cosgrave, T. (2011). Critically analyzing information sources. Cornell University Library. Retrieved from https://olinuris.library.cornell.edu/content/critically-analyzing-information-sources

YouTube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JZZQAOiq5eo

Change, Contexts, Consequences, Constants

https://twitter.com/UNICEFUSA/status/1179502822884347904

Three consequences of learning about the international early childhood field is learning about poverty, violence, and lack education. Researching organizations such as UNICEF discusses the difficulties in other countries on receiving basic needs. Families in Central America have some migrant children trying to escape poverty. When children and families have to worry about to their basic needs will be met education does not always become a priority.

UNICEF says “We won’t stop working for every child”. I think we need to support goals such as this because children don’t always get to make choices the adults around them do.

References

https://www.unicefusa.org/

"Be the change you want to see in the world"- Mahatma Gandhi

Thank you to all my colleagues, keeping making a difference. 

Professional Goals, Hopes and Dreams

I work for an Early Head Start program where quality is always being discussed especially since it helps with our funding. We use different types of assessment to rate our quality such as the Infant/ Toddler Environment Rating Scale (ITERS), and The Classroom Assessment Scoring System (CLASS). We are rated using based on materials provided, interactions between children and teachers, and health and safety to name a few.

We have professional development training almost every month as well as online training that we complete. The online course is already paid for and we have assigned courses to take but we are more than welcomed to take other courses.

Some of my professional goals are to attend a national early childhood conference. I believe there is so much I could learn from one of these conferences. Also, it would be a great opportunity to network and meet other professionals in the field. Some of the challenges are cost but I’m grateful for the promotion I have received at work that has given me a major increase in pay. I used to be one of the early childhood teachers who was making $25-30 thousand a year and living in the Washington DC area that is not a lot of money to live off of.

My ultimate goal is to be an advocate for the field. We must advocate for teachers and children to really make improvements. If teachers are making low salaries it is hard to give your all for the children, we service because we often have to figure out how we will help ourselves.

Sharing Web Resources: NBCDI

The National Black Child Development Institute (NBCDI) has different affiliates in over twenty communities across the nation. These networks partner with children, families and other organizations to implement literacy, health, juvenile justice, parent engagement and college-readiness for young children.

In exploring the website further, I did find that the organizations does not offer a weekly newsletter. They do have a social media account on Instagram that does share upcoming events. 

The NBCDI is working towards equity for young African American children and their families. As I looked into two of the affiliate websites, I learned that the DC affiliate offered a resource titled “Being Black Is Not a Risk Factor: A Strengths-Based Look at the State of the Black Child. This publication discusses the challenge Black children face such as limitations and deficits within education. The Chicago affiliate is hosting a nutrition event. The National Black Child Development Institute (NBCDI) and Too Small to Fail, BCDI-Chicago’s Nutrition Education Project promotes healthy eating by offering nutrition education to children and families.

Through these affiliate resources and events the organization is creating awareness within the community. These helpful resources can help children and families gain access for their needs to be meet in order to become successful.

References

https://www.nbcdi.org/affiliates/chicago/events-programs/nutrition-education-project

https://www.nbcdi.org/resource

https://www.nbcdi.org/affiliates/dc-metropolitan

Global Children’s Initiative

Equity is when every child has what they need to succeed. 

 The Center on the Developing Child at Harvard University has global efforts to achieve outcomes for children. Persistent gaps in education and health associated with socioeconomic disadvantage impose enormous burdens on individuals, communities, and societies worldwide (Harvard, 2010). Harvard partners with Brazil, Canada, and Mexico.

In Brazil the NCPI partnership has created a science-driven early childhood movement on how to apply developmental science to inform programs and policies.

In Canada, the AFWI seeks to bridge the gap between “what we know” in science and “what we do” in policy and practice.

  In Mexico, Aceleradora de Innovación para la Primera Infancia, has a strong interest in human development and they are enhancing child outcomes through adult capacity building.

The insight I have gained is how these organizations are understanding the importance of how the brain development and the effects it has on young children. I also like how not only are considering the effect of the rain and young children but how adults have an effect on young children.

We must provide children with positive experience to help their development.

References

Center on the Developing Child at Harvard University. (2010). Global children's initiative. Retrieved from http://developingchild.harvard.edu/about/what-we-do/global-work/

 
 

Sharing Web Resources: NBCDI

National Black Child Development Institute

In the news section of NBCDI there is an article that discusses black health and how NBCDI and four other organizations are working together to launch a major health initiative. This is relevant to my current professional development because as I am teaching the children, I work with the importance of going to the doctor I also have to communicate this information with their families. When you are introduced to healthy practices it can have a lifelong effect.

The NBCDI website shares highlights on last years annual conference. Some of the guest speakers were Angela Rye, CNN political commentator, and Mayor Keisha Lance Bottom. This already shows how education and politics can support social change by coming together to have discussions. The NBDCI is an organization who is creating social change for African American children.

Another insight I gained from the website is looking at some of the events they have had such as Girl Power, World Literacy Crusade of Florida.   Girl Power is designed to provide programming for young girls that builds confidence, competence, and pride; re-engages girls in academic settings by supporting their success; and works with them to avoid incidents that may require them to come into contact with or under the supervision of the juvenile justice system (NBCDI, 2020). I think this is a great effort because literacy is important especially for low income families. My job is currently working on a literacy effort to help get the whole school engaged in more reading.

https://www.nbcdi.org/point-of-proof/girl-power-world-literacy-crusade-florida

Getting to Know International Organizations Part 1: UNICEF

Young people should be encouraged to reach the highest level of education of which they are capable (UNICEF, 2010).
 

This organization helps to expand social protection systems that support the well-being of all children.  UNICEF partners and works in 190 countries and territories to focus on special efforts of reaching the most vulnerable and excluded children, to the benefit of all children, everywhere. UNICEF realizes the importance of early childhood development and adolescence. 

I chose to look at poverty in Latin America. Childhood poverty in Latin America and Caribbean (LAC) countries are trying to ensure there is a public investment in children. Unfortunately, some countries are unsure of how government funds are being spent towards the youth. This stood out to me because I fill like that happens here in the U.S. especially when it comes time to vote. On the voting ballot there are always question saying if you vote for this the money will go to education but often time the schools and teachers still suffer.

A summit called, Investing in Children in LAC: Toward more effective and equitable investment in children, was the third organized by UNICEF. This event discusses the quality of spending for education. The LAC works on three fronts, which are as followed understanding the efforts that States dedicate through public budgets to fulfill child rights in all societies across LAC. Second, to deepen analyses, especially in terms of the quality and effectiveness of spending, where measurement is regularly taking place. And finally, to showcase LAC experiences globally and fuel advocacy for more and better investments in children in all regions (UNICEF, 2015).

I think we must continue to have these conversations and events to help make people aware especially when effects something so big.

References

United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) (2016). Child Poverty and Social Protection. Retrieved from: https://www.unicef.org/socialpolicy/index_childpoverty.html

Sharing Web Resources

National Black Child Development Institute

https://www.nbcdi.org/news/leaders-educators-and-advocates-convene-chicago-tackle-top-issues-facing-black-children-during

I chose to research the website for NBCDI a little more. I have always wanted to attend a early childhood conference and saw this headline on their website. The theme for this years conference is Transforming Communities for Our Communities. With a lot of changes developing in my area along with many others this stood out for me. This week’s discussion also discusses culture and diversity. 

We must have this discussion more for education to be inclusive.

As part of the roundtable discussion at the conference this year this will be a key factor “Failure to accurately count Black children and families in the 2020 Census can have a devastating impact on communities across the country, resulting in diminished resources for education, healthcare and housing. Mayors Lightfoot and Lance Bottoms and a diverse panel of national and community thought leaders will explore the topic and mine for opportunities around this issue, which will ultimately impact families for the next decade.” (NBCDI, 2020)

I believe we have to have organization to represent different cultures to make sure all children are accountant for. "Quality programs for Black children must incorporate factors that ensure esteem and respect for oneself and one's heritage."

- Evelyn K. Moore, NBCDI President Emeritus, 1972

Expanding Horizons & Resources

“Global Fund for Children partners with community-based organizations around the world to help children and youth reach their full potential and advance their rights.” The podcast shares information about the latest news such as child trafficking and how they are helping. They have a 20-year impact on social change. They also offer newsletters, a blog, and a variety of books that teach children about other children. I like to learn about other cultures to better understand people. Diversity is needed because we can all learn from one another.

"It is easier to build strong children than to repair broken men."

- Frederick Douglass

The NBCDI is one the only few organizations who solely focus on the well-being of black children. This organization is important to me because I once was a black child and one day, I hope to have children and I like knowing that there are other people who will take interest in their well-being. Also, I work with low income families who are majority African American, and I need resources that can help me help them.

 The NBCDI isn’t just for the well-being of children but also helps educators to be prepared on how to help these young children.  Programs and activities that are offered are the annual conference, the T.E.A.C.H. Early Childhood DC program which helps teachers attend college as well as literacy activities just to name a few.

References

https://globalfundforchildren.org/

https://www.nbcdi.org/