Week 8: What I Have Learned

The journey of becoming an anti-bias educator has been a rewarding experience. I have been making a difference in the lives of people: 1 child at a time-1 family at a time, while simultaneously becoming a better person each day. The journey of modeling anti-bias behavior continues with several goals.

I have the hope that building stronger teacher-family partnerships will encourage more families to discuss topics that affect them.

I have the goal of teaching all children to use nonviolent strategies such as patience, honesty and confidence to respond to teasing and unfair treatment from others.

I want to thank all of my colleagues for sharing their experience with bias, stereotypes and prejudice and making the learning environment a meaningful place to grow for all professionals!

Week 7: Start Seeing Diversity - Creating Art

On my journey to promoting anti-bias behavior I wrote a poem that accepts the visible and invisible uniqueness found in children and their families. Children can recite, sing and clap along. It is essential for Early childhood professionals to celebrate the different identities, abilities, and characteristics that are found in everyone.

 A Rainbow of Us!

Hello… Hallo…..Hola….Aloha…..Salut....

We are little…We are big

We are dark…We are bright

We are tall….We are short

We are silent…We are talkative

 

We eat chicken…We eat worms…We eat rice…We eat mice…

Crawling….Walking….Rolling….Skipping…

Learning ….Playing …Working ….Growing…

 

Together we stand as a blended family….

A blended family….A blended family

Happily Ever After…. we are free…

As long as we celebrate…you, me and my dog Hairee!

Week 6: Start Seeing Diversity: "We Don't Say Those Words in Class!"

 Teaching children with varying abilities requires extra effort and attention. Anti-bias educators will find many rewards and happy moments along the way. We may encounter challenging moments when some adults and children ask unwelcome and rude questions regarding a child’s condition. It is always a great choice to handle the situation with calmness, patience and sternness.

 I was tutoring four 2^nd grade students in the hallway of an elementary school. Seven year-old Megan is living with a condition known as cerebal palsy and requires the use of a wheelchair. Megan has a classroom job of sharpening everyone’s pencil. She enjoys doing things to help her classmates. She was one of the 4 students being tutored on this day. As I was starting the activity, I noticed that the students did not have any pencils and Megan offered to get 5 pencils. Jennifer, a girl sitting at the table, made a rude comment. She responded “Aw man…do we have to wait for her…she’s moves like a snail in that raggedy wheelchair…anyone who uses a wheelchair can’t move very fast.” Bias based on physical disabilities is any attitude that subordinates people because of a disability or other physical characteristics (Laureate Education, 2011).  When I heard her say that, my eyes turned into beach balls out of pure shock. As we were waiting for Megan, I asked Jennifer if we could speak alone for just a minute. I immediately told Jennifer that we should be positive or be quiet and that Megan has a condition that makes it difficult for her to move as fast as others and there is no reason to be rude to her. During our private conference, Jennifer apologized for making the comment and began looking toward the floor.

 I believe I communicated the message of showing respect for all people.

 An anti-bias educator could have used several strategies to support Jennifer’s understanding of people who require wheelchairs. The teacher can ask Jennifer why she thinks all people using wheelchairs move slowly. The teacher can have a series of classroom discussions in which books depict people of varying abilities being active members of society. Some books model anti-bias behaviors and help children think about how they can act against different kinds of bias (Laureate Education, 2011).

 References

Laureate Education, Inc. (Producer).(2011). “Start Seeing Diversity: Physical Ability and Characteristics.” {Webcast}. Baltimore, MD: Author.

 

Week 3: Gender, Gender Identity & Sexual Orientation

Heterosexism and Homophobia are biases and discrimination against same-sex couples, lesbian, gay and bisexual individuals because of their sexual orientation. These two concepts are more commonly practiced than I originally thought. Some individuals believe that early childhood centers should avoid the inclusion of books depicting gay or lesbian individuals such as same-sex partnered families. In response, I would explain that there are different types of families and they are represented in classrooms around the world. All families should be respected, valued and appreciated for their unique backgrounds. One strategy that anti-bias educators can use to include diverse family structures in the classroom is to use photos for games and discussions (Laureate Education, 2011).

I have heard a homophobic term used by one child toward another child. Aaron and Zach were playing a wresting game with their muscular male dolls. Aaron’s doll was defeated. Zach then became angry and yelled “I don’t want to play with your macho doll anyways….You whine like a little sissy punk every time you lose the game….sissies never win…they’re weak and act like girls.” As an anti-bias educator, I would explain to Zach that he is using the wrong word and that this word is very hurtful to people who are lesbians, gay, and bisexual. “Anti-bias educators can enhance children’s dramatic play by creating pictures depicting people of both genders engaged in nonstereotypical activities”(Laureate Education, 2011). Zach should be taught that both men and women wrestle and are equally competitive.

One insight that I have gained is that homophobia are feelings that can come from just about anyone.

References

Laureate Education, Inc. (2011). (Executive Producer). Learning from another's life story:Families and children. {Webcast}. Baltimore, MD: Author.

Week 6 : The Adjourning Phase

After working with Jesse and Tristan to give Hannah (a 4-year old girl battling leukemia) a birthday bash, saying goodbye was the hardest part.This was difficult because we had the rewarding feeling of knowing that we worked together with a common goal of helping a child and her family. Hannah was a part of this team but did not get to celebrate her 5th birthday with us. However, Jesse, Tristan and I promised Hannah's family that we would make annual donations to the Children's Hospital which would benefit other children battling various forms of cancer.

While working on my master's degree here at Walden, I will cherish the memories, lessons and experiences that my colleagues have shared!

Adjourning is an essential stage of team work because it allows each member to celebrate the differences they made in their work to achieve a common goal. It's not the easiest stage, but focusing on how team work has benefited a cause is the best feeling in the world!

Week 5: Conflict Resolution

I remember having a disagreement with my niece about her using the computer and cell phone for several hours each day. She looked at me and yelled “I need more freedom….I’m 13 years old….I feel like I can’t do anything anymore!” I became impatient and walked away because I wanted to avoid having any kind of screaming match. Studying this course content and information related to conflict resolution has provided relief and more opportunities to successfully resolve conflicts with others in and outside of the classroom. I will now use a different approach when handling the same disagreement with my niece. I would be more patient by listening to and accepting her perspective of feeling bored and wanting to do more things. Both of us could compromise by allowing her to use the phone  and computer for 1 to 2 hours per day. I understand that she has a social life and should be allowed to socialize with her friends. She should understand that I am concerned about who she is communicating with and for how long. She also has to understand the dangers that are present on the internet and phone chat lines. We have agreed that 1 hour of computer use will be devoted to studying while the 2^nd hour will be used for hanging out with friends. Any further advice from my colleagues is welcome and appreciated!

Week 4: Being Evaluated As A Communicator

I found the experience of evaluating myself as a communicator very simple. I only looked at the positive things. I know that I am a great listener. I am also polite most of the time.  Having someone else evaluate me as a communicator was a bit challenging because I was able to look at myself from differing perspectives. The two people who evaluated me as a communicator pointed out two important weaknesses.
1. They found that I was extremely shy.
2. They also found that I was too passive and avoided participating in debates.

 Teachers should not be shy. Teachers should not be too passive because they are the voices of many children! After hearing their opinions, I agree that I have a long way to go in becoming an effective communicator!

Week 3: Effective Strategies for Communicating Across Cultures

 

I find myself communicating differently with people from different groups and cultures. Sometimes I find myself being passive to avoid saying anything that may be offensive to the other person.  I tend to be more attentive.

1.      I think it is essential to develop active listening skills to understand what is being said.

2.       I am more patient and curious to learn more about the person’s language, religion, parenting style, musical selections and childhood.

3.      I avoid using any type of slang or jokes that can be interpreted as offensive. I don’t allow any prejudice and stereotypes to interfere with my communication. I treat each person as an individual by applying the golden rule.

These things are important because there is an increasing amount of diversity in our schools, neighborhoods, families and workplace.  The main goal is to help others feel valued, respected and loved through meaningful relationships!

Week 2: Observing Communication on Television

I chose to watch a reality show called The Bad Girls Club for the first time. While watching the muted episode, I thought the girls were family members getting into physical altercations about something sensitive. Based on the nonverbal behavior that I observed, these girls were expressing anger toward each other. The scene was chaotic. I made the assumption that these girls were wild, rude and lacking in self control. I think my assumptions would have been correct and incorrect if I had been watching a show that I knew well. It would depend on the individuals that are being observed. After watching the episode twice, I have the clear understanding that violence is the worst form of communication. Patience, respect and consideration for others will help me to be a more effective communicator!

Week 1: Demonstrating Competent Communication Within A Certain Context

My sister Courtney is a wonderful mother to 4-year old Melody. She has demonstrated competent communication skills through her parenting style. She recently witnessed her daughter having a verbal altercation with a playmate about a toy. Courtney calmly explained to both girls that it is always good to share some materials with others. She stated "I have a good idea......I understand that there is only 1 bicycle available to ride.....Melody....Allow your friend Minnie to ride the bike for 5 minutes.......Then you will also ride the bike for 5 minutes.....This is how we solve our problem....This is a great time for sharing." Both girls smiled and continued to play, remembering Courtney's instructions and following directions. This is an effective communication skill known as compromising. This is also teaching social skills to young children. Courtney was very patient and enthusiastic while speaking to both girls. She encouraged them to work as a team. She was teaching both girls how to make good choices. I would want to model some of my own communication behaviors after this person because Courtney's communication behaviors revealed positive results. This communication behavior supports children developing meaningful relationships with each other. Children often imitate behaviors displayed by their parents or adults. According to O'Hair & Wiemann (2012), "Most of the skills we need in order to communicate must be learned." Courtney's daughter (Melody) has applied this effective communication behavior to her daily life as she plays with her friends.

References
O'Hair, D., & Wiemann, M. (2012). Real communication: An introduction. New York: Bedford/St. Martin's.

My Professional Hopes and Goals

When working with children and families who come from diverse backgrounds, I have the hope of helping everyone succeed by creating an inclusive environment that allows everyone the satisfaction of being appreciated by others.

One of my goals for the early childhood field is making sure that all families have the resources they need to fully nurture their children. This is important because the parent/family/caregiver is the child’s first teacher and can make the largest impact on the child’s decisions.

I would like to thank my wonderful colleagues for sharing their experiences, ideas and insights related to equity, diversity and social justice. My colleagues have deepened my understanding of a variety of topics in the early childhood field!

Blog: Welcoming Families From Around the World

I am working at Little Leaders Child Development Center. The staff is welcoming a 5 year old girl named Phongpip  from Thailand. This is the first family that I’ve met emigrating from Thailand. There are several ways that I can be culturally responsive to this family!

1.      I’ve learned that this family speaks the primary language of Thai. As an early childhood professional, it is essential that I support the family’s native language. I will have lots of fun learning basic Thai greetings such as

Hello/Good Morning: sawasdee krup(male) Kaa(female)

Goodbye: la gon

Thank You: Kop Koon (krup/kaa).

2.      I’ve learned that the family loves serving spicy food to their children and we will be providing meals such as rice and stews called curries.

3.      I was informed that the family likes playing a popular sport called Takrow. The early childhood professionals will introduce this sport to all of the students. This is how we will play: the players will try to keep a ball made of ratton (woven palm stems) in the air by using their heads, legs, and feet.

4.      Phongpip’s parents wanted everyone in the child development center to know that her favorite song is the Bollywood Dance. We will celebrate Thailand’s culture by playing this song once each week.

5.      As an early childhood professional, I will allow Phongpip’s parents and family to do additional  projects sharing their family history, culture and values with others.

These preparations will help build strong teacher-parent partnerships and will allow the early childhood professional to learn more about the family’s deep culture. It is essential for me to support this family and other diverse families so that I can enrich the quality of education for all!

The Personal Side of Bias, Prejudice, and Oppression

I was watching a movie called "Why Did I Get Married?." Four black women entered a clothing boutique and were having a disagreement with each other about how the clothing would fit. One of the store employees who happened to be a white woman calmly interrupted the conversation and stated "We do not keep cash in the store." Although the movie is a family oriented comedy, my persoanl opinion was that this was a racial microaggression. The store employee did not know anything about the customers who were shopping in the store. I kept asking myself "Why would she bother to make such a degrading comment?" Was it because they were women of color? Was it because they were arguing? Or perhaps----Was it something else? If I were the target of such a bias or prejudice, I would feel like others perceive me as a threat, a criminal, or bad person. This incident diminishes equity because the customers were not being treated fairly. The store employee assumed that they had an intent to rob or steal from the clothing boutique. They were being treated as criminals instead of customers. In order to turn this incident into an opportunity for greater equity, I would have to increase awareness that this behavior towards customers and diverse groups of people is clearly unacceptable by going public and speaking out about sensitive issues.

Week 4: Practicing Awareness of Microaggressions

It is a life-changing experience to learn about microaggressions and the impact they have on diverse individuals. My neighbor Teddy, who is only 14 years old, recently had an argument with his uncle about some gloves that went missing in the house. As I am standing on my porch, I witnessed the uncle making a very nasty remark saying “GO LIVE WITH YOUR MOM….YOU FAGGOT.” This is an example of sexual microaggression that was intentionally directed at Teddy.  I was shocked that he would say something like this to his own nephew or anyone else. I wanted to believe that he was just angry and thought his nephew  had somehow stolen the pair of gloves. A few days later, Teddy was still upset and embarrassed as he spoke to me about the details of this experience.  He knew that I witnessed this incident because I was standing on my front porch.  He also wanted to know what I was thinking and I told him that I wasn’t judging him in any way. He has secretly explained to me that he has an interest in boys his age, but didn’t plan to ever reveal this to his family. It is a bit disturbing to see someone hurt because of another person’s prejudices. This experience has taught me that microaggressions are committed more often than I realize. I’ve also gained an insight to be accepting, supportive and understanding of the individual differences that people have!

Week 3 Blog Assignment: Perspectives on Diversity and Culture

When learning about culture and diversity, it is always an advantage to understand the varying perspectives and how they differ from your own. On my journey of learning about culture and diversity, I talked with 3 individuals about their definition of culture and diversity. I spoke with a Preschool Teacher, a Neighbor and a Relative.

Ms. Jennings  is a preschool teacher. She explained that Diversity is extremely important in school because it really benefits the students that attend the school. Students need to see the importance of other cultures. She went on to explain that diversity is important because it provides more than just one look at a particular issue, world or idea. Diversity helps to create the changes needed, to benefit our country and the world. Ms. Jennings also stated that Culture is a more specific form of diversity that describes the lifestyle of a group of people.

Ms. Alizonda is my neighbor who lives across the street.  She felt that Diversity is important because it promotes unity in a group or an organization. She stated that there will be lots of unique generation of ideas and use of varying skills and talents to help attain goals. Ms. Alizonda explained that she is from India and that she must be submissive to her husband. She does what her husband asks of her. I also learned that she does not use toilet paper in her culture. She stated that this rule is a part of her culture that defines her role as a woman.

Kimberly is my cousin. She explained that diversity is important because it allows people to work together with different kinds of people. It allows for a better understanding of other cultures and ideas. She wants people to understand that culture should be recognized in every country, workplace and school. They include persons of various ethnic groups and interests. She explained that she completed cultural diversity training and this helped her to dispel negative stereotypes about other people.

There was at least 1 aspect of culture and diversity that I studied in this course that is included in the answers I received. Recently, I read the article written by Janet Gonzalez-Mena (Diversity in Early Care and Education).  The article explains how early childhood professionals should be culturally responsive to diverse families.  Ms. Jennings has helped me to understand this by explaining her definition of culture and diversity.

One aspect of culture and diversity that was omitted was food and music. I really wanted more elaboration on the types of food and music that was experienced in each culture.

Hearing other people’s perspectives on diversity and culture has inspired me to do a research activity on cultures around the world. I want to explore cultures that I didn’t know existed before studying topics in this course.

(Week 2) Blog: My Family Culture

It is one of the biggest life-changing  moments for me to say goodbye to my hometown of Richmond, Virginia. I have to live 1 day at a time and continue my identity formation in Mexico.  I will be taking 3 valuable items that represent my family culture. They include a photo of my immediate family: My father, mother, sister, brother and myself. This photo was taken in front of our 3 bedroom home. The other two items include a blanket that was knitted by my grandfather. This blanket has the American flag colored into the cloth material. The other item that I will carry is the Holy Bible. I have read every chapter and verse in the Bible. The Bible gives me guidance in how to make good decisions and treat others in any situation.

I would explain to the residents in Mexico that my family photo is a representation of how close and inseparable my family was before and after the catastrophic event. I would tell the Mexico residents that my blanket is a constant reminder of the freedoms and opportunities that Americans have in the United States of America. This includes the options for everyone to get an education, start a business and vote. I would explain to the Mexico residents that my Bible is my sanctuary, guide and reference to peace. The people in the Mexican culture will know that My Bible is a way for me to learn how to serve God!

If I was told that I could only  keep 1 item, I would keep my Bible because it gives me inspiration to live each day as if it were my last. When I am feeling depressed, I can always refer to my Bible  for healing and spiritual guidance. I would feel overwhelmed to have to give away the other 2 items because they shape who I am as a family member and citizen.

As a result of this exercise, I am very excited to learn the languages that Mexican residents speak, the favorite foods that we share in common and their religious practices. This journey of diversity will be life-changing, inspiring and educational!

Week 8: When I think of Research....

I have gained some valuable insights about research while studying this course. Starting off in research was an intimidating experience for me. I once thought of research as simply locating information on any topic. It's not that simple! However, conducting good research involves planning, accessing and using available (reliable) resources, detecting biases and using mixed methods approaches to increase the validity of a research study. I now view research as an effective tool that is used to understand, explain and make sense of life experiences. I've learned some important things about planning, designing, and conducting research in early childhood. I've learned that all research designs don't use the same data collection methods. Following the Code of Ethics in research is a huge responsibility of the researcher. Some weeks were easier than others. I faced several challenges in this course. The biggest challenge for me was being specific enough when stating my hypothesis. Another challenge for me was that this was the 1st major research study that I conducted. I was able to overcome these challenges by accepting any feedback provided by my professor. The textbook served as an essential guide to doing a successful research study. I also appreciate the support and encouragement from my lovely colleagues. I don't know where I'd be without them! Although this is my 1st research course, my perceptions of being an early childhood professional have changed. Research is such a huge part of the early childhood field. As a result of conducting studies, EC Professionals are able to gain new understandings and make life-changing decisions that will make early childhood programs and learning more successful. I hope to be a more critical consumer of early childhood research!

Week 5: Research Around The World

I explored the Early Childhood Australia website (http://www.earlychildhoodaustralia.org/au/). Current international research topics include school readiness and children's transitions, child health and child obesity and inclusion. This website addresses a wide variety of issues related to the early childhood field. This website also gives information about language & literacy, music & movement, creative arts, children & behavior and learning environments. As I explored the website, The Code of Ethics was one of the first topics to appear at the top of the page. Australia has developed several editions of the code of ethics. I also learned that the following values and processes are considered central to the Code of Ethics:

• respect
• democracy
• honesty
• integrity
• justice
• courage
• inclusivity
• social and cultural responsiveness
• education

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

Effects of Research on Children and Families

I don't think research is worth anything if it does not have any positive effects on children and families. I read an article titled The Effects of Marriage and Divorce on Families and Children. After completing his research, Gordon Berlin made several conclusions.

1. Children who grow up in an intact, two-parent family with both biological parents present do better on a wide range of outcomes than children who grow up in a single-parent family.
2. Evidence suggest that marital education, family counseling and related services can improve middle-class couples communication and problem solving skills, resulting initially in greater marital satisfaction and, in some cases, reduced divorce, although these effects appear to fade over time.

References
Gordon, G (2004). The Effects of Marriage and Divorce on Families and Children. Retrieved from
www.mdrc.org/publications/386/testimony.html

Week 2: My Personal Research Journey

Hello Colleagues! As a substitute teacher and future preschool teacher, I have had the amazing opportunity to work with students from different socioeconomic backgrounds. I have chosen to do further research on childhood poverty. Childhood poverty has a huge effect on a child's development and education. I have come face-to-face with poverty in the classroom. Consequently, it has had a long lasting effect on my relationships with children and their families. This is a sensitive issue that requires my immediate attention and action. I know there is so much that I can do to help alleviate the devastating effects of poverty in a child's journey to being a life long learner. I am still in the process of constructing the research chart. I'm sure this will be a roller coaster of professional development and new understandings in the course of building research competencies. I am also in the process of finding resources that I can share with all of you.  I welcome and appreciate any advice and insights any of you may have relating to childhood poverty.

EDUC 6162- Week 8: Final Blog Activity

I've had the time of my career exploring U.S. websites and International websites in the early childhood field. Although I haven't received a response from the 2 early childhood professionals, I spent a great deal of time exploring several websites, especially the NACCRRA (The National Association for Child Care Resources & Referrals Agency). I also enjoyed listening to the podcasts featuring the EC Professionals. They addressed goals, efforts and solutions for issues such as poverty, hunger, water instability, literacy, abuse and child rights.


As a result of learning about the international early childhood field, I have gained 3 amazing insights.
1. I share similar goals with the E.C. Professionals featured in the podcasts.
2. I have already donated over $50 to the Feed The Children Foundation.
3. I was able to learn about the efforts that activists took to ensure clean water for all children.


One goal that I am currently pursuing is developing a fundraiser to increase awareness of the importance of literacy for all!


The best part of  sharing my blog experiences is having the support of my colleagues and other early childhood professionals. I don't know where I'd be without my wonderful colleagues!

Week 7: Blog Activity

After visiting and exploring the UNESCO website, I have gained 3 new insights/ideas about issues related to international early childhood education that relate to my professional goals. Literacy begins in the first few years of life. When toddlers are able to recognize symbols such as the McDonalds logo, children are learning to read. Therefore, literacy is significant to early childhood. UNESCO shares important information about literacy. I learned that 1 in 5 adults is not literate and about two-thirds of them are women while 67.4 million children are out of school.

 1. However, UNESCO has been dedicated to improving global literacy by keeping literacy high on national, regional, and international agendas. I admire how UNESCO tries to promote literacy for all.


2. I also discovered that UNESCO advocates for Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) programmes that attend to health, nutrition, security and learning and which provide for children’s holistic development. This goal is related to the effective practices and programs course that I studied some time ago.

3. I have learned that UNESCO has a goal of finding solutions to increase inclusive education. This is so important because 75 million children are currently excluded from education for several reasons including poverty, disability, inequity, child labor and speaking a minority language. One of UNESCO's main goals is to develop the full potential of every individual.





References
http://www.unesco.org/new/en/education/themes/strengthening-education-systems/early-childhood/

SHARING WEB RESOURCES

At the beginning of this course, I chose to explore the National Association of Child Care Resource and Referral Agencies (NACCRRA). Amazingly, this organization is currently known as Child Care Aware. I actually like the new name because it captures my attention as a future child care provider. This organization/website has a new area called "ChildCare Aware Training Academy." There are at least 5 additional topics that are highlighted in this new area. They include Getting Started, Business Plans, Management Plans, Training Program Planning and Resources. I chose to search and explore the area of Program Planning. Program planning helps child care providers choose and create lesson plans and fun activities that will nurture children's development. This area offers tips on planning a curriculum that focuses on all areas of child development. The areas of child development include cognitive/intellectual, language/literacy, social, emotional, physical, cultural, and approaches to learning. I did not find any information on this website that directly relates to the issues that I studied this week. However, I get more excited each time I visit this website. There's always something new to learn. Exploring this organization is assisting me with a wealth of knowledge and resources to increase equity and excellence in the early childhood field. Having access to these educational organizations is a constant revelation that no child should be left behind........regardless of their varying needs and abilities!

Week 5: Getting to Know Your International Contacts-Part 2

I am still waiting on a response from the 2 early childhood professionals that I chose to contact during the first week of the course. I listened to a podcast featuring Susan Lyon. She is a teacher who founded the Innovative Teacher Project. This project is a network of schools. Public and private schools participate in different projects to explore how children understand the world.

I visited the "Global Children's Initiative" website. The Global Children's Initiative has constructed activities that relate to early childhood education in (3) domains:

• Early Childhood Development
• Child Mental Health
• Children and Crisis

It is essential for this organization to focus on these 3 domains. They play a vital role in the future developing child. If professionals don't address the 3 domains listed above with effective tools and resources, learning outcomes in the educational setting will be negatively affected in each child.
After visiting this website/organization, I've gained 3 new ideas.
1. Early childhood development is most effective when parents, teachers and the children spend time playing, reading, and learning other skills together.
2. Children need unconditional love from everyone including supportive and encouraging teachers. This will lead to more self confidence and improved mental health in children.
3. Children of all ages experience a wide range of crisis such as abuse, domestic problems, family problems and substance abuse. Providing counseling services and prevention programs can help children reach giant milestones.

All children will not have access to the same services, but professionals, families and other organizations can make a difference in the life of at least 1 child. This is equity and excellence at the minimum level!

Sharing Web Resources

The National Association of Child Care Resource and Referral Agencies is changing its name to ChildCare Aware of America. The name change seems more relevant to my professional development. This website explains that a well-trained child care workforce is needed to meet increasing demands. This organization is dedicated to supporting prospective and current child care providers. The NACCRRA has partnerships, programs, and resources that are designed to help child care providers learn more about how to start a childcare business, sustain their childcare business, keep informed on current legislation and policies affecting young children, continue professional development and have access to hundreds of fun, learning activities to do with children in their care. One idea on this website has made me think about issues in new ways. The NACCRRA is leading the first-ever nationwide initiative to prepare childcare programs for disasters. To help ensure the safety of children, NACCRRA offers resources that childcare providers can use in planning for and recovering from any catastrophe that strikes.There are a number of budget bills pending in Congress that could affect child care funding. Parents need child care in order to work, making child care critical to the economy. It is important for parents and providers to inform their Members of Congress know that child care funding is critical in communities.

Getting to Know My International Contacts

Earlier in the course, I chose to contact 2 early childhood professionals outside of the U.S. However, I have not received a response from either of them. I am currently proceeding with the podcast that features early childhood professionals. Delfena Mitchell is the director of the Liberty Children's Home on the outskirts of Belize. Many of the children she works with were abused, abandoned or neglected. I really appreciate her sharing her work with some very special children. According to Ms. Mitchell, a 9 year old boy named Joseph came to live in the program. He had not been able to speak for over a year because he had been abused and witnessed his sister being abused. He totally shut down. Ms. Mitchell and her staff worked with Joseph by home-schooling him. This failed. On 1 particular day, Ms. Mitchell and Joseph went horse-back riding and Joseph suddenly started speaking. He revealed to Ms. Mitchell gruesome details of his grandmother beating him with a stick. Joseph also explained how he would hide under the bed so that others would not take away his food while he was eating. Once the horse ride was over, Joseph began to shut down and stop talking again. Ms. Mitchell felt a sense of relief because progress had been made. After a combination of medication and schooling, Joseph now speaks everyday. I've gained an insight that 1 person can make a difference in the life of at least 1 child. As professionals, we should never give up on a child.

                                                                   Poverty in India
Many of India's children are affected by poverty, making their lives extremely difficult. I've learned that almost 62 million children under the age of 5 are malnourished and 34% of newborns are significantly underweight. Unfortunately poverty is a vicious cycle of disadvantages that begins at birth, continues through childhood to motherhood. It is then transferred to the next generation. As a professional, I can't save the world, but I will make donations that will improve the life of 1 or more children. The issue of poverty will victimize many in the future years, but millions of caring people can afford to help in some way!

References
http://www.childhoodpoverty.org/

Week 2: Sharing Resources

I selected The National Association of ChildCare Resources and Referral Agencies (NACCRRA). The link to this international website is http://www.naccrra.org/.

This organization focuses on promoting national policies and partnerships to advance the development and learning of all children and to provide vision, leadership, and support to community childcare resources & referrals. The current issue from this website that has caught my attention is related to childhood obesity. First Lady Michelle Obama has made several announcements of "Let's Move! Childcare (LMCC). As a result, almost 2,000 participants have registered online and joined the fight against childhood obesity. The members have committed to increasing physical activity and healthy eating habits in children. This will promote healthy environments for children in early care and education settings. The NACCRRA has developed a series of webinars highlighting some of the goals.

I've learned that I can do more to help fight childhood obesity. This website has increased my awareness about child-health related issues. I plan to join the existing 1800 members in the Let's Move event. Another way to help is to set an example. If we want our children to eat right and be more active, we have to do more than just talk about it. We have to do it ourselves. The parents, teachers and childcare providers have the biggest influence on the children. The children will imitate what we say and do. As a result they will pass these same habits on to their own children. EVERYONE GET READY, GET TOGETHER & LET'S MOVE WITH THE NACCRRA!

EDUC 6162 --Week 1 Blog Assignment

PART 1: ESTABLISHING PROFESSIONAL CONTACTS

During my journey of becoming an early childhood educator, I am excited and curious to expand my knowledge about child development or any child related issue by contacting 2 early childhood professionals. There is a wealth of resources available in helping me to make my choice. I was able to use The Global Alliance of NAEYC link to conduct my search on the professionals.
1. I am interested in conversing with Blesilda Rios. She is a representative for "The Center for Early Childhood Care & Development." This organization is based in the Philippines (OMEP Philippines National Committee).
2. I am also attempting to communicate with Jane Lim. She represents  "The Association For Early Childhood Educators." This is based in Singapore (OMEP-Singapore).

PART 2: EXPANDING RESOURCES

I feel very eager to explore the naccrra (The National Association of Child Care Resource and Referral Agencies). This organization/website is a great advocate for child care. I am planning to operate a home-based daycare center that will eventually grow into a center-based childcare facility. This website will increase my awareness of current childcare issues.

My Supports

Support is help that people desire and willingly provide to others. All of us need support at some point in our lives, whether daily, weekly or rarely. There are different kinds of support that I need. I receive emotional support from my mother, financial support from my sister and medical support from my doctor. It is very challenging to be visually impaired. I can no longer cook independently. My sister cooks for me. I miss the days when I could lock my door, run to my car, get behind the wheel and drive. My brother has to transport me from one place to another. I am so thankful for the services that my family and friends offer. I am now attending a school that is training me to use a white cane to improve my independent mobility. The same school is now teaching me how to trust my new guide dog to help me get around town while walking. I also have neighbors that volunteer to cook food and transport meals to me. I also have been awarded a personal assistant who helps me complete daily tasks like paying bills, using the restroom, doing laundry, washing up/showering, getting dressed and locating important items around the house.  I don't know where I'd be if these wonderful people and services disappeared. My life would be more difficult to live. I would have no decent form of transportation. I would not be able to cook on my own. Using the bathroom would be a complete disaster.  I never thought that I would be in this situation. I really miss all of the wonderful things that many people take for granted each day. I am happy that doctors will be able to restore my eye sight in the next 12 months. In the process of my recovery, I've just been admitted to a special school that teaches independent living to people with my condition. I am very greatful for all of the support systems that exist!

My Connections To Play

"Play is the beginning of knowledge."
                                        Anonymous

"Children need the freedom and time to play. Play is not a luxury. Play is a necessity."
                                                                          Kay Redfield Jamison (Professor of Psychiatry)

                                                                                    
Each summer, my friends who were the same age as me would come to my house and ask if I could have some company. Most of the time, my mom or dad would allow them to watch movies with me in the living room. About 5 of my friends and I would play "House." We used the sofa pillows to build this house. We would pile up in the play house and pretend that there was a wolf outside, waiting to eat us for dinner. My mother thought it was so amusing. She would fix ice cream and cup cakes for all of us to make the "pretend play" even more exciting. My favorite form of play was sociodramatic play. My friends and I would play "Mother and Father." Someone would always play mother, father, sister, brother, and dog. We used grass for the food. We used mud to make the cakes and pies. We also used dirty water for chocolate milk. My mom and dad would support me by allowing me to play outside for several hours during the summer. "Pretend play and sociodramatic play" was also a relief from the constant bullying that I experienced in school. I think play today is different from the play in which I engaged in as a child. Today technology has invented so many advanced or high-tech games that children don't have to use a lot of energy to play anymore. The down-side to this is that the rise of obesity is increasing. Some parents are facing mounting pressures so they are not able to monitor childhood play as much as they should. Sometimes children are not able to engage in play because they are busy helping parents with chores and other responsibilites.

Relationship Reflection

Relationships/partnerships are so important to me. Without relationships, life doesn't have much of a purpose for me. Everyone needs someone. Relationships are the reasons that babies develop emotionally. Without relationships, learning doesn't take place. If learning does take place, application would be useless. Without teachers, parents, and other care providers, many children would not learn to read or even care for themselves. Relationships create a path for language and interaction with others. I love and appreciate everyone that I currently have a healthy relationship with.

Mom has made a difference in my life. The time she spent with me was priceless. We ate at McDonalds every Friday. She allowed me to have friends over as a reward for weekly chores. She worked as a nurse which made it easy for her to care for my eczema as a child.

Dad provided for me and my siblings. Although he didn't make lots of money, he made sure food was on the table and the rent was paid. He encouraged me and my siblings to go to church. He taught us how to give respect in order for us to get respect.

My niece was born 12 years ago. She was the greatest gift that a family could ever wish for. Although her mother lives in a different state, she looks to me as a 2nd mom. She tells me that she loves me because I do everything for her including the laundry, the dishes, cooking and cleaning. She also says that she couldn't ask for a better mom.

My relationships with these people have taught me that the family does have a major impact on the success of a child. I plan to nurture the children in my daycare business the same way that my family nurtured me as a child. The love, affection and time spent with my family is more valuable than any material things that I received as a child.