Ideals and Reflections

I-4.6 To promote knowledge and understanding of young children and their needs. To work toward greater societal acknowledgment of children’s rights and greater social acceptance of responsibility for the well-being of all children.
I-1.2 To base program practices upon current knowledge and research in the field of early childhood education, child development, and related disciplines, as well as on particular knowledge of each child.
I-2.7 To share information about each child’s education and development with families and to help them understand and appreciate the current knowledge base of the early childhood profession. (naeyc)

NAEYC states the primary focus of the Code of Ethics is on daily practice. Daily practice or, as Renatta M Cooper coined - “how I want to move through the world” is clarified by the ideals that are the most meaningful to me and help define the focus of my professional goals . Research is very important to me because it provides proof, or validates a theory. Ideal I-1.2 speaks to the importance of implementing research into ECE programs. I will incorporate this into my professional life by ensuring that college students I plan to teach have an understanding of research as it applies to educational and developmental programs as well as the statistical evidence of the long term benefits for society. I am particularly drawn to the statement, knowledge of each child. We must never lose sight of the individual! I will instruct college students, as I did my staff when I ran my child care center - know each child. A simple yet complex task. This thought is enhanced by Ideal I-4.6. The importance of understanding children and their needs begins on an individual level. I am committed to teaching students how to recognize and meet the needs of each child. Ideal I-2.7 speaks of my responsibility to promote the well-being of all children. I will ensure college students grasp the importance of sharing information beginning with families to work toward greater societal acknowledgement of responsibility for the well-being of all children. Parents have a right to participate in their child’s education and developmental programs. I plan to stress the importance of parental involvement for the sake of the parents, but more importantly because of the huge impact it has on the child. Parents and family members can be empowered to become great advocates for their children.

Self reflection:

I have struggled with self reflection because my passion has led me back to a field with so much opportunity for growth. I am able to see the need and potential for leadership and advocacy. Research has produced a dollar figure on the value of investing in early childhood development and education. There is great potential to make great contributions to this field. However, I must be realistic about where I can be most beneficial. I am gaining confidence that I will be an excellent teacher in a community college. At this stage of my life if I can light a spark in my students to pursue a career that involves being a professional, a leader and an advocate I will consider that I have done a good job.

“Don’t hide your candle”
Linda Likins

“Take pride in what you know and have humility about what you don’t know”
Gina Adams

“Don’t emulate people you associate with, just learn from them………”
Dick Clifford