My hope in working with families who come from diverse
backgrounds is that I will continually reflect and check myself that I am being mindful,
respectful and appreciating their contributions to my program. I hope to remain open to new possibilities
and do not want to assume that my way of being is the only way. Through my diversity reflections, I have
realized that there is still much I need to learn and experience in the process
of overcoming personal biases and misconceptions. I hope to continue this journey of self
discovery and advocacy.
One goal I would like to set for the early childhood field
related to issues of diversity, equity and social justice is to continue to
help educate EC professionals, parents, and other key community/political
leaders of the critical importance of children’s social/emotional learning. I have seen too many programs neglect
social/emotional learning - in helping children build foundational skills that
teach them how to accept and collaborate with others who are different than
they are. I feel we almost need a back
to basics approach to early childhood education, where children are modeled and
directly taught how to be kind, use soft hands, share, and play well with
others. The ability to empathize with
others, have self control, show respect, and resolve conflict are critical
aspects of social ability that is being neglected because so much emphasis is
being placed on cognitive ability in the elementary grades. How can we create a society that is accepting
of diversity and advocate for equal access to all, when we are not teaching our
young children these skills because we must focus on strict academic development
at younger and younger ages?
I have enjoyed learning from the collaboration and writings
of my diverse colleagues these past 8 weeks.
I have been inspired by your passion for early childhood education, and
through your personal experiences and viewpoints related to diversity and
equity that you have shared with me.
Thank you very much for your contribution to my learning! Best wishes moving forward in your education!
Hi Collett,
ReplyDeleteIn response to your, it is a very good post and most of all I like your personal goal that you have written as well as your hope. This is simply because children are indeed the future and they need to be nurtured and cared for holistically to meet the needs of the society. It was great working with you each week also as I have learn a lot from you throughout the weeks of our study. Keep up the great work.
Collett,
ReplyDeleteI strongly agree with you that with the increased focus on academics, we are not taking enough to time address the social and emotional development of children and taking the time to teach them important skills such as being respectful, empathy and how to effectively problem solve. I agree that we will not be able to create a just society if we dont teach our children from an early age how to appreciate their own uniqueness and the uniqueness of others.
I have thoroughly enjoyed engaging with you throughout this course and I have learned so much from you. I wish you all the best as you continue your educational journey and in your work with children and families. Hope to see you in another class!
Hi Collett,
ReplyDeleteSelf-reflection is an important part of being an early childhood professional, not only does it help us keep our goals in sight but it also ensures that we are treating others the way that we wish to be treated. I have enjoyed reading your blogs and learning from you. I wish you all the best for your continued learning and I hope you enjoy the holiday season with your beautiful family.
Collett,
ReplyDeleteThank you for sharing your hopes and goals with us. This has been a positive learning journey for us all and we now have new knowledge to take with us daily. By you continually reflecting and checking yourself, you will be mindful, respectful and appreciating to the contributions to your program. Remaining open to new possibilities and will help you not assume that your way of being is the only way.
Thanks for sharing and Good luck on this journey,
Pam