PROFESSIONAL HOPES AND GOALS

One hope that I have when I think about working with children and families who come from diverse backgrounds is that every early childhood professional will become mentally and educationally prepared to embrace every child and every family that is different. As we learn to become more accepting, we intentionally begin to break every hidden barrier that is existent within the culture.

A goal that I would like to set for the early childhood field with regards to issues of diversity, equity, and social justice is to create an atmosphere that is non-judgmental within every early childhood sphere of influence that would promote acceptance, promote tolerance and promote awareness of the many social identities that are existent and viewed as controversial. By learning to embrace and interact with many of the cultural differences this would promote personal growth and development and break every hidden barrier that is prevalent in the field.  

Finally, I would like to express my gratitude to all of my colleagues and our professor for making this a memorable learning experience during these past eight weeks. I appreciate your transparency, your insight, and your willingness to share your personal experiences with us throughout the course to help bring clarity and understanding of those difficult and challenging issues we had to discuss.

 

 

Welcoming Families From Around the World 

 My early childhood setting takes place within a child care center. I have received word that the child of a family who has recently emigrated from a country I know nothing about will join my group soon. In preparation, I prepare myself to welcome the child and her family. Luckily, I have enrolled in a course about diversity and have learned that in order to support families who have immigrated I need to know more than surface facts about their country of origin.

The name of the country of origin I chose is “Aruba”.  This is a country that I know little about except that many Americans tour this country and I have heard that the weather is beautiful. I wanted to know more about the culture, people and country to see what it has to offer.

Some of the ways in which I can prepare myself to be culturally responsive towards the family is that I would begin to read about the culture and language via various resources.  I would look to find what significance the country and culture has.  In particular, the country is both multi-lingual and multi-cultural. There are 4 different languages spoken to include, Dutch, Spanish, Papiamento, and English.  Familiarizing myself with some of the basic terminology in these languages (English, Dutch and Spanish) would be a start and would help me to understand the family dynamics. Another approach would be to learn of some of the cultural meanings. I would find and gather items that represent the country and place them in the day care room and ensure that the family/child has some things that they can identify with that is familiar to them. I would also see if I could find someone that is familiar with the culture/language and probe and ask questions that would help me to communicate and understand the family better.  I would also want to find out more about the family and would have them fill out a questionnaire prior to me meeting with them. This would help me to at least see ahead of time some of the family’s interests and needs which would help with the interview and personal contact.  

 All of these practices will allow me to become better prepared, acquainted and possibly feel more at ease if I prepared ahead of time and take the time to find out about the family. Learning about their likes, dislikes, customs, and/or things that we may do or not do that may be offensive is well worth exploring prior to my visit with the family. 

 

 

The Personal Side of Bias, Prejudice, and Oppression

One experience that I would like to personally share is many years ago when my oldest daughter was younger we took a family vacation to Disney World. At the time, my daughter was probably about three or four years of age and was in a stroller.  As you can imagine the theme park can be overcrowded with droves and droves of people.  During this time the parade was just getting started and my daughter could not see all of the Disney characters because she was in the stroller. As people normally do, we pushed our way into the crowd so that we could get a good view.  As all the people were moving forward there was this white man who was beside me who blurted out “stay in the back where you belong you black bi---” and pushed me forward into the crowd.  Well needless to say, my husband who was behind me did not take to kindly to this as he reacted and pushed the man back and told him not to put his hands on his wife. The man then glared at my husband and continued to push his way to the other side into the crowd. 

This particular incident diminished equity when the man called me out of my name. His deliberate racial behavior, attitude and statement removed all opportunities to promote peace. This deliberate hostile act is known as a microassault which was discussed during Dr. Sue’s media segment on micro-aggressions (Laureate Education, 2011).

The emotional feelings that I experienced on that day was that of anger, fear and sadness. I became angry because this man disrespected me and thought that it was okay to call me out of my name and then push me. I was also angry because he thought that he was in some way superior to me and that hatred was in his heart. My heart became fearful because my husband became enraged and pushed him back in order to protect me.  I was afraid that this was going to lead into a bad situation. So I calmed my husband down and talked him into not taking this incident any further. It took me a while to let that incident go but I was saddened by the fact that racism still existed and that this man had this amount of hatred and anger in his heart.   

In this situation in order to bring about equity the man that pushed me would have had to have a softened heart. His behavior and superiority mentality of how he viewed me as a black woman would have had to change. However, I chose to not stay angry and not to hold a grudge against this man and others that are ignorant just as he was. I chose not to develop and or hold onto racial attitudes and behaviors because I had a bad experience and a victim of someone else's prejudices. I believe that this situation helped me to grow and become more tolerant of other people’s ignorance.

Practicing Awareness of Microaggressions

This week’s blog assignment was interesting to me as I was able to learn about the topic of micro aggressions and its impact it has on so many individuals, class, gender, and races, etc.  I’ve learned that some behaviors and remarks are unintentional and some are regarded as intentional/deliberate prejudices that people have and think about others. During this week’s observations, I was able to witness a form of “microaggression” that was played out as a deliberate insult towards a particular person. One of my colleagues whose office is next to mine is a heavy-set white female who is working on losing weight and is doing a great job at it. She works out every day and is consistent at it.  She has lost a tremendous amount of weight and is still keeping her goals before her. This week I overheard two of her employees talking and laughing about her and how she works out all the time and is still heavy. The comment and assumption made by one lady was that she is fat and they can bet on it that her house is not clean and that she is a “lazy” person.  This was a microaggression in the form of a microassault with an assumption and/or prejudice against fat  and/or heavy-set people.

My emotion towards this assumption was that I was a little taken aback with the comment made. I felt like the comment was unfair and that they should give her more credit for her discipline in sticking to working out and eating properly because my colleague has been working on her weight for a little over a year and has and is looking good. She shared with me that she enjoys food but her health was getting the best of her and that she needed to work on herself. Sometimes people’s assumptions and judgment on others are inconsiderate and harsh. I also felt that they made an unfair judgement about her. To assume that her home is unclean and that she is lazy is unfair. She actually is a very organized person and when it comes to her weight this is something she struggles with as we all have some issues that we need to work on.

My observation this week has reminded me that our society has a long way to go and that people are cruel, and are prejudice. I have been subject to prejudices as a victim and as an unintentional offender. However, when I read of and am reminded of their existence it makes me do better and become a better person in keeping my comments and assumptions to myself. But more importantly, it allows me to be open minded, compassionate and accepting of others even the more.

 

 Perspectives On Diversity and Culture 

  

This week's blog assignment allowed me the opportunity to sit and talk to three friends/colleagues on their perspectives on diversity and culture and how it relates to their world. Many of the responses were similar but because each person is unique in their own rite, expression of their culture and diversity took on a different meaning. 


My initial discussion took place with one of my colleagues whose responses and ideas were similar to what I have read during this past week. She stated, "culture is important because it is what we bring into our families. Things such as my traditions, holidays that I celebrate or choose not to celebrate, my traits and/or behaviors that I have. I think they are the way in which I act and/or respond to certain situations. My interaction and my beliefs and religion. My culture is my connection to self and my family's roots.  Her perspective on diversity is that, "it is being able to adapt to the environment and people you are around and being accepting of others. It is a way of connecting with people"(M. Hemington, personal communication, Nov 12, 2015). 
 
My second conversation consisted of a discussion with my friend who is a Reading Specialist and Elementary School teacher. Her perspective regarding culture and diversity as an African American female. She states, "culture is the make up of characteristics that are shared within families and relationships. They represent beliefs, views and standards that are practiced and applied to families. It also means being proud to be part of a family/culture that represents who we are.  My definition of diversity for me simply means a melting pot of differences"(S.Thompson, personal communication, Nov 11, 2015).  

  
My last discussion was done with my friend/colleague who shared her experience growing up in America and in an area that was not diverse in culture and ethnicities. She states, "culture to me is everything. It means the way in which my grandmother woke us up in the morning to the way in which we celebrated holidays. It also represented our communicative ways with others. It affected the clothes that we were allowed to wear or not, and the way in which we traveled on vacations. I believe diversity is being able to see beyond color and gender. But being able to look into people's thoughts, actions, and their soul of who they are. Growing up, I was not able to see different ethnicities but after the age of 12, I was able to really see the world and see other people that were also part of a world that I had no idea of. I enjoy the differences that people have (T. Heath, personal communication, Nov 13, 2015). 
  

One aspect that I was surprised that was not mentioned is the aspect of food. Food is usually a huge expression of culture. Regardless of the ethnicity, many cultures enjoy sharing this part of their heritage. Food is a way of sharing and building relationships with individuals. Another aspect that was not mentioned but is of importance is religion. Culture does also represent religion. This is big for me as this represents my faith. There are many individuals that do not really practice and/or believe what I believe but this is what makes us different and does affect "diversity".  
 

In conducting these discussions and receiving feedback from my colleagues, I have been influenced by the fact that culture and diversity has different meanings and understanding for many people in different ways. It was interesting to hear my colleagues discuss and share about their personal life experiences and express their feelings on their concepts and share their experiences. I've enjoyed learning of and getting to know my colleagues in a more personal view as they shared their perspectives. Again, for me, accepting people as they are and being open and willing to let them express who they are is something that I am comfortable with doing. 

 

                                                   

MY FAMILY CULTURE 

 

Never in a million years would I imagine having to go through a major catastrophe such as what has been described during this week's blog assignment. However, there have been many people and families that have experienced this situation of being displaced and having to start all over. The three items that would be near to my heart that would represent my family culture would be as follows: 

 

• The first item I would grab would be my scrap book of all our family photos. Within this book would be all of our family pictures that would represent my family heritage. This scrap book would include pictures of family members from my maternal and paternal side of the family.   
• The next item for me would be my "bible" that was given to me by my mother over some 30 plus years ago.      
• The next item would be my grandmother's wedding ring that was given to me by my dad. It represents her legacy, as I did not have the opportunity to meet her. She passed away before I was born and since I was the only daughter on my father's side this was passed down to me.     

For those that would be interested in knowing my story, I would take the time to share with them each of the three memorabilia's and the story of why and how each are significant. I would start with my family photos and share who each one is in our family. I would then share about my bible and how it has impacted my life. The last thing I would share would be the piece of jewelry that was given to my by my dad and that it represents my grandma's legacy.

My feelings would be very emotional if I had to choose only one of the items. All would be hard to leave behind as each one represents a part of my life and culture. My pictures would help me be reminded of the images and faces of family members that are a part of our family. My bible would represent my faith walk. And, my grandmother's piece of jewelry would help remember who she is.

As a result of this exercise, I have been reminded of just how precious life is and at one drop of a dime life can be interrupted with a catastrophe. However, through the years and with the encouragement of many strong men and women, I have been given the gift of "faith" and hope in Christ. This experience for me and my family has been our cultural experience that has been handed down from many generations. I realize that not all people and cultures practice my religion, but this is my cultural experience that makes me unique and different from others.

                                           When I Think of Research...
 
During the past 8 weeks of Building Research and Competencies, I have learned a wealth of knowledge concerning the research design process.  There were many new insights that I had no knowledge of, but became familiar with the concepts that would help conduct a research study. I was able to familiarize the differences between quantitative, qualitative and mixed methods approach. I've learned the various types of the triangulation process that helps to validate a research study. Topics such as ethics and many other approaches which all helped me to understand the process. 

My ideas about research has changed tremendously.  I had no idea about the amount of time and effort that goes into initiating and formulating a study. Learning step by step methods and approaches in bringing the study altogether from beginning to end. There are so many check and balances that need to be measured and so many ways to try to prove the methods for accuracy.

I've have learned valuable approaches in the planning, designing, conducting and most importantly the relationship connection which is so important. My biggest challenge was actually narrowing my research question down during the two weeks that required us to find a quantitative and qualitative question regarding our topic.  Each week I found myself refining and changing my question.  I like the fact that my classmates were able to provide feedback and also helped me to see my question and their approach from a different perspective.
 
Some of the ways that my perception of an early childhood professional have been modified as  a result of this course is that I have learned to see research in a different light.  I know that I am required to remain open and as a life-long learner in the field of early childhood.  As a professional, in my everyday world I have to intently think about and stay abreast of the various issues and trends that impact the early childhood field in terms of research and more. 

 I  would like to say thank you to all of my colleagues who participated in this group and a big thank you to Dr. Parrish who challenged us and pushed us to think beyond the research process during these past 8 weeks of class. 

                                                  
 RESEARCH AROUND THE WORLD

This week's Blog Assignment required that we navigate through several international Early Childhood websites that were of interest. I selected, the European Early Childhood Education Research Association (EECERA). This organization is said to be the largest international early childhood organization and is comparable to that of the National Accreditation for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC). 
In review of the site, some of the current international topics I found were topics that talked about, gender differences and the male/female roles in early childhood education, the use of technology with children under five years of age, video observations of children's perspectives on their lived experiences and challenges in relationships between researcher and children, scaffolding and how to increase development and also articles on the influence of children and play. Their website offers a host of journals filled with research articles in early childhood and development. 
     Some surprising facts that I've gleaned is that the organization offers authors the opportunity to have their work published and read. Information that is posted and archived on the international site is selective and is one of four early years journal indexed by the Institute for Scientific Information.
     Other noteworthy information I found on the website is that the site offers a section titled "Special Issues" or monographs. This link offers archived articles that focus on topics or developments in the early childhood field such as:
    1). up-to-date overview of current knowledge and developments in the field, and an evaluation of relevant empirical studies
    2). presentation of new developments, applications or policy implications.
    3). the development of new research methodology

These topics all provide insight on new developments within the early childhood field within an international scope. In addition, the site offers other information regarding various cultural differences that affect many ethnicities and many countries. 

References:

European Early Childhood Education Research Association (2015). Retrieved from,

         http://www.eecera.org/journal/

RESEARCH THAT BENEFITS CHILDREN AND FAMILIES

  

Children with Disabilities ---Botox and Cerebral Palsy

 

One positive effect of children and families in terms of research that I would like to share is the research that has been developing over the past tens years. Research in children with Cerebral Palsy and the use of Botox which is a therapeutic muscle-relaxing agent that reduces the rigidity of muscles or unwanted spasms in a specific muscle. Botox as we know it, is used as a cosmetic that helps reduce wrinkles or make body parts fuller. 

CP is a condition that is marked by impaired muscle coordination (spastic paralysis) and/or other disabilities caused by damage to the brain before or at birth.  

 
Over the past ten years, research has been conducted and proven successful for children with CP and the use of Botox.  Small amounts are injected into spastic or stiff muscles. The injection takes effect immediately blocking the transmission between the nerves and the muscles. Muscles are then relaxed and reduces stiffness promoting mobility for muscles to be stretched. It's use also helps children with ease of stretching, improvement in child's range of motion, and tolerance to wearing braces and developmental improvements in crawling, standing, or gait walking.
 
Initial research conducted a study of 250 children with CP and Botox injections.  As a result,  video's from children's gait, assessments from doctors, and reports from families found that 86 % of the children treated demonstrated noticeable improvements in symptoms of muscle spasticity. After two years, 80 % of the children still showed improvement over their initial symptoms. Reports have also proven that some children in the study were able to do more for themselves such as feeding themselves, or operating a sink faucet. Others were able to hold a pen and write for the first time. Some were able to use a computer screen to communicate. All of which have proven to be success stories regarding children.


Research on behalf of children is crucial in finding new methods and ways to help children perform and function at their highest capacity as they grow, learn, and develop in life. We were ask the question during our discussion this past week if there are any societal benefits from subjecting children to "greater than minimal risk". I believe that this is one method that society/children can benefit from. 



CP and use of  Botox is near and dear to me as this is a method that is currently being used on my grandbaby. This has helped her become more mobile.  As she continues on her journey, I believe our family will see some more benefits of its use. 

Here's a picture of one of my favorite girl's.  Meet Khloe Warner, almost 4 years  old.  She is a recipient of "Botox" use for her CP condition as a result of research. The smile that you see is always on her face regardless of what she is going through. When I think about life and situations, I am grateful and always think about my "Khloebug".  I have much to be grateful for! 

Personal Research Journey

      The general topic I chose to explore is Child Nutrition and what effects it has had on child development.  As I searched further, I found the following three subtopics that would pertain to this topic: brain development, malnutrition and child obesity.  All are of importance to me as they have touched my personal life in some sort of way. However, I decided to go with a topic that has been steadily increasing and can be viewed as an impeding issue within the early childhood field.  Childhood obesity is an alarming and rising issue that has become prevalent across the nation and in the lives of families. Many young children are affected by obesity and are experiencing more and more health challenges. Parents, caregivers and the people who love them play a huge role in ensuring that children get what is needed to help prevent and help them grow into healthy young children and adults. My research question poses the issue of, “Is childhood obesity a result of the lack of parental care”?  Children are overweight and unhealthy because they are not receiving the proper nutrition of food and physical activity that can help to avoid obesity in their early years. Although research is being conducted, there is still further study that can be explored to help promote education and ways to fix the problem.

     My personal and professional experience is that I am a director of a child and youth program and am responsible for working closely with our USDA department and family childcare providers to ensure that children are receiving and being offered nutritious meals and adequate physical activity within our program throughout the day.

Throughout my charting process, I have learned that there is so much more to conducting research and the time it takes to find out the information that is needed to prove or validate your research. Many new terminology and ideas have been given to help shed some light on the research process.  The book and other resource articles help to bring some understanding on the beginnings process. I think that with anything; the more you practice and use the tools given, the more it will help you become better at finding and producing what is needed for the outcome.

     In search of additional insight on my topic, I am asking my colleagues to share what ideas, insights and practices that are using to help get the word out and educate children and parents on the importance of helping children and families make healthier choices and practices regarding health and nutrition.  

 

 

                                                

        Consequences of Learning about International Early Childhood   

Wow, this is our final week of class and we are moving on to the next one... I've really enjoyed Issues and Trends in Early Childhood. During this past week, we were to share our experiences of what we have learned concerning international countries. Although I didn't make contact with an international professional, I have learned a great deal on the continual issues and injustices that children in other countries face. Three consequences that I have learned concerning the international early childhood field through navigating many of the websites are as follows: 

• That poverty has no particular face when it comes to children and families. Many children as young as five years of age from many countries and many differing nationalities are subjected to a life of poverty. Children learn how to survive on the streets and learn how to find food for their families. As a result, many are severely malnourished.
• Young girls are treated unfairly. Through mistreatment, abuse, and lack of education, girls are treated as second class citizens. However, many young girls are given the opportunity to become educated. Through education, girls become aware and empowered to fight for their rights and rise above their circumstances.
• There are many resources and organizations that are in place that promote awareness and advocacy to help fight against social injustices. 

One goal that I strongly recommend is to continue to connect with an international early childhood professional.  For those of us who were unsuccessful at contacting someone, I suggest that we keep trying and hopefully we will make a connection. Getting to know others that are also passionate about the field and the causes they are fighting for is exciting and encouraging. Learning about other countries and what they go through helps to keep us thankful. I am considering a membership with ACEI and signing up for their advocacy program. This would allow me to grow even more in my field but mostly help advocate for injustices that still exist today.

I would like to extend a "thank you" and best regards to all my colleagues during this eight weeks of class. I've enjoyed gleaning from each one of you. Sending a special thanks to Dr. Horton who challenged our thinking in many different ways during these past weeks. Best regards to all!

 

Getting To Know International Contacts, Part 3 

 

We are winding down... and this is almost my last blog assignment for Issues and Trends in Early Childhood. The course has been one of my favorite thus far. This week I had the opportunity to navigate through the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) international website and was moved by the cause that has been set into place titled, International Day of the Girl Child. The resolution and/or cause is to recognize the empowerment, rights and investment in girls. Recognition of this resolution is critical, as girls play a vital role in economic growth, achievement of all Millennium Development Goals that include the eradication of the various types of poverty, and allowing girls to participate in the decisions that affect them. Allowance of "women and girls' " participation will help break the cycle of unfair practices and injustices against them and especially where education is concerned. 

 

There are many injustices that have affected "GIRLS".   Did you know that...

 

FACT: 31 million girls of primary school age are out of school. Of these, 17 million are expected never to enter school.

 

FACT: Three countries have over a million plus girls not in school. Pakistan, Nigeria, and Ethiopia.  These countries exhibit the highest rate of inequity in education. 

 

FACT:  There are 34 million female adolescents out of school that are missing out on the chance to learn vital skills for work and life.  

 

FACT: Girls who do not complete an education are more likely to join the ranks of the illiterate women that represent two-thirds of the 774 million illiterate people in the world.

 

These numbers are astounding but with organizations and child advocates such as UNESCO that stand-up and fight for inequalities and social injustices for the voiceless, will help to put an end to these unfair barriers.   

 

“Better Life, Better Future” Campaign

 

The other insight that I have gleaned is the opportunity to become involved in the, “Better Life, Better Future” campaign.  This is an opportunity to become involved in helping women and girls become better prepared for their future. By investing in ways to help improve the lives and futures of girls and women in the most underprivileged countries and settings will be rewarding.  I believe by partnering with advocates such as UNESCO’s Global Partnership for Girls’ and Women’s Education will help provide a solid platform, bringing together UNESCO’s unique experience in education and its extended multi-sectoral network. Partnership is extended to many organizations such as government, private sector, foundations and media and others. 

 

 

 

 

Reference:

 

UNESCO’s “Early Childhood Care and Education” webpage (http://www.unesco.org/new/en/education/themes/strengthening-education-systems/early-

 

childhood/)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

                                    Sharing Web Resources, PART 3

Sharing my blog assignment for Week 6, ACEI news...

     ACEI is the website I chose during the beginning of our class assignment. We were asked to follow some of the outside links. One link I chose to follow was titled, "Country Liaison Program". This is a site in which ACEI's Country Liaison program encourages the development of a network of ACEI volunteer liaisons from various nations around the world. Some of the nations that are part of the liaison is Africa, America, Asia, Europe and Oceania. Once you click on the country there are sub countries that will also come up to show other countries that part of the liaison. Its sole purpose is to gather information about childhood education practices and policies in various nations, and to share this information with members and non-members, provide information to support the development of association programs, and promote international and intercultural understanding (ACEI, 2015). 
     Another site that I navigated was the ACEI international affiliates. This links provides names of international countries that are part of ACEI.

     One of the areas that I have thoroughly researched is the link to the "Advocacy" page. This site focuses on education advocacy by promoting Education Diplomacy. This can best be described as the ability to understand how ones work impacts an entire system. The mission is to catalyze education reform and human advancement. It is an approach to the education profession that requires continuous knowledge gathering, creation, and sharing; an awareness of oneself as much as an appreciation of relationships with others; and sensitivity to the contextual and cultural complexities to theory and practice in the field. On a professional level the education diplomacy requires the ability to, understand how one's work impacts an entire system, connect broad global trends with their direct or indirect effects on education, and utilize knowledge, tools, and cooperative initiatives to facilitate achieving one's goals as an educator. If professionals are interested in becoming part of the diplotersmacy there is another link directing individuals to the Center for Education Diplomacy. (ACEI, 2015).

     I have not subscribed to any newsletters from ACEI but I  have navigated through their Global News and found an article, Disparities in Access, which reconfirms the disparity regarding children's access to pre-k programs. The article provides stats on the low numbers of four year olds enrolled in these programs. It also validates the reasons why it is so important for early learners to attend pre-k programs. Reading this article helps me to understand even the more why access to pre-school and pre-k programs must be increased for children. These beginning years are crucial in their developing appropriate skills in their learning.

     Another insight I've gleaned is that adequate amount of funding is not provided to support the needs of the programs that need to be in place. There are so many children that are not able to attend preschool/pre-k because the funding is not appropriately allocated throughout.  Unfortunately, in the past, many cuts in early education has been applied. As additional research and policy makers continue to lobby and promote the importance of early childhood, funding may be increased to help support and meet the needs of the children.


Reference:
http://www.acei.org

 

Getting to Know Web Resources -Part 2

 

The Global Children's Initiative is an awesome website filled with information and research on child development in every aspect. One insight found is there is an organization called, Grand Challenges Canada, Saving Brains, which its focus is to improve the outcome of children that are living in poverty through intervention that nurtures and protects the early child brain development for the first 1000 days of a child's life. The program's objective is to bring together mentors and experts in the field of early childhood development, innovative systems and learning communities. The program's is spearheaded by the Center on the Developing Child.  Their primary focus is to enhance the collective impact of the Saving Brains program.

Another insight found, the NCPI is an organization that seeks to apply scientific knowledge to inform new strategies that will improve the well-being and life outcomes of vulnerable children in Brazil, while also supporting sustainable social and economic development in the country. The website offers collaborative work regarding practice, policy and research within the Brazilian community that impacts the Brazilian early childhood. This program seems to be significant within it self as it has helped to improve the lives of many children living in Brazil.

 

Another insight is that the website offers training modules as professional development opportunities. In particular, Building Brain Architecture: The Foundations of Lifelong Learning, Health and Achievement. This is actually connected to the Frontier of Innovations. This online professional development module communicates the science of development to adults whose decisions affect children, youth, and families. It has four distinct sections, which provide a basic overview of how early child and brain development happens, how it can be derailed and supported, and what effects early development can have on lifetime health and learning.  

The Global Children's Initiative is a great resource and has many affiliates within the website. Other links that also scientific and research information is , the National Scientific Council on the Developing Child, National Forum on Early Childhood Policy and Programs, Frontier of Innovation and Scientific of Adversity and Resilience.  All links support the health and well-being of children.

Reference

http://developingchild.harvard.edu/initiatives/global_initiative/),


 

 

 

Sharing Web Resources, Part 2
 



     Several weeks ago I shared information regarding the organization I chose to further study.  The Association for Childhood Education International (ACEI) is the organization of choice and the web address is as follows: www.acei.org. The organization reaches out and provides a wealth of knowledge on what's taking place on a global perspective. 

     While navigating through the site, what I have found relevant to my professional development is the publication articles that provide information on various early childhood development programs.  I came across the bulletin titled, Early Years Bulletin, an ACEI publication that offers information for professionals on teaching and caring for children ages 0-6. This is a great resource for me as a Director of a family child care program. It can be utilized in such a way that I can share information with my staff and in-home family child care providers that are keeping up with training or doing a special project. Many of my providers seek to achieve their CDA and this is a great way to share information knowledge and inform them of current issues and trends that are taking place not only locally but in a global aspect as well. Also, they are affiliated with other organizations that can also be a great contributor to my professional development and help me to become more versed within the early childhood field. 

     One of the resources that I found to be enlightening is the promotion of ACEI's campaign tilted: Love Me, Teach Me.  The campaign speaks volume to me as an individual and professional and as to deeply focus on the very-being of a child. The heart of the campaign is to "promote the needs and rights of children everywhere. The campaign is built upon four cornerstones, each contributing to the well-being of children and related intimately to children’s needs and rights. These four cornerstones are See Me, Hear Me, Love Me, and Teach Me, and they apply to all children, worldwide. The campaign is named Love Me, Teach Me because these two cornerstones contribute most significantly to a child’s overall development and well-being (ACEI, 2014). The campaign is one that I will definitely be sharing with my colleagues and organization that can be marketed throughout our Child, Youth and School Services programs.

  

     One of the resources available on the website that adds to my understanding of how economists, neuroscientists and politicians contribute and support the early childhood field is that they provide a publication called Global News.  The link provides many archive articles and publications that address issues and trends on  a global level and gives opportunities for economists, neuroscientists and politicians the chance to voice their opinions and concerns about what is taking place on a global aspect. In particular, an archive publication titled: The World Economic Forum is an organization committed to improving the state of the world by engaging business, political, academic and other leaders of society to shape global. regional, and industry agendas. Conferences are held on a yearly basis to discuss economic issues that impact growth and development.  Additionally, ACEI also has implemented the Institute for Global Education Diplomacy. This is a summit that is also held each year and gives opportunity for advocates to come together and focus on issues and trends in education and early childhood. 

     One of the new insights about issues and trends that I have gained pertaining to the early childhood and educational field is the fact that there is a global attack on education that has impacted many countries that have been involved in wars. Unlike the U.S., military soldiers have taken over schools, universities and buildings that have robbed children of their well-being and educational experience. When this take-over is implemented many schools and facilities are forced to close. It is said that when children remain in schools with a military presence, they can be exposed to sexual violence, forced labor, and forcible recruitment. Girls are often the target of sexual abuse by soldiers and many parents will keep them home from school. Reading about these occurrences has opened my eyes and appreciate that I live in a nation that has not experienced these types of issues presented.  Thankfulness is the "Word" of the day.  There is so much to be thankful and grateful for.  Learning of these global issues that affect children have only made me more compassionate as an individual.


References

https://www.acei.org
 

 

Getting to Know Your International Contacts

 

 

This week's Blog assignment we were asked to introduce our international contacts that we have been in connection with the during the past three weeks.  Unfortunately, I was not able to get a hold of anyone that I sent three email correspondence to.  I also went on to the next step in which we could listen to podcasts and try and connect with a contact as well. Again, I was unsuccessful in my attempt to make another contact. So, in my next attempt we could navigate the UNICEF website and read about childhood poverty in one country and share at least three insights or ideas that I have gained from studying the website. UNICEF was the international organization that I initially reached out to when looking to find out about several other countries. I am actually a bit disappointed that I could not make a connection with the organization during the past several weeks.
 

However, Lagos, Nigeria is one of the countries I chose to read about in regards to poverty. This is one of the countries that I was hoping to actually hear back from an early childhood educator/professional.  This would have been a great net-work in receiving feedback and first-hand knowledge.  Insights that I would like to share is the fact that Lagos is considered an urban city, which has about 10.2 billion living and dwelling in the city. Surprisingly the city is built on and around swamp areas.  It is said that 49 percent of the population are children under the age of eighteen years of age that live and dwell in poverty. Many of the children are homeless and are left to fend for themselves.  As a result,  many young boys are recruited on the streets and trained as pickpocketers.

Another insight gained concerning Lagos, Nigeria is that there is a high influx of human trafficking and exploitation of children. Many young children are exploited and sold on the streets. In an attempt to end human trafficking, Nigerian lawmakers and officials have attempted to take a stand against the slave trade. Back in 2005, 52 children were apprehended at the border. As a result, many lives were saved from a life of slave trade and labor. . Human trafficking is not uncommon and happens everyday in many countries and within our own back door. This is a crime against children that lawmakers need to address and put an end too. 

The third insight gained, the country of Nigeria has experienced an epidemic of the polio virus. Many children have died as a result of the widespread issue. As a humanitarian effort, UNICEF has partnered with others to help put an end to the epidemic.  Groups were formed that consisted of caregivers, vaccinators, traditional and religious leaders- to systematically engage in advocacy and programming to reach out to children. The group traveled great distance to reach every child/children, by foot, motorbikes, car and boat to reach every child so that they would be vaccinated.  As a result of UNICEF's commitment, they have successfully developed a strategy that has nearly eradicated the polio virus (UNICEF, 2011). 

In review of the country of Nigeria, it is evident that many unfair issues and trends are existent against children. Organizations such as UNICEF and its partners have come together to help fight against the unfair treatment and practices against children. 

Reference:

http://www.unicef.org/infobycounty/Nigeria


 

 

Sharing Web Resources  




 

 

 

 

 

The name of the organization I selected is the Association for Childhood Education International (ACEI) which is a 501 c 3 charitable organization dedicated to promoting the optimal education and development of children in a changing world through various programs and projects that align with ACEI's mission. ACEI's tagline is "Bright futures for every child, every nation," which highlights ACEI's commitment to support and advocate for access to education, equity in educational settings, quality educational content, and the child's right to education (ACEI, 2015). 

While navigating through the site, I came across an article titled, "Prohibiting Corporal Punishment" which seemed to have caught my attention as I have always been intolerant of abuse against children. The article spoke of the use of any physical or mental harm to children that is used as a form of punishment and how it is still practiced worldwide in many countries of diverse economic and political status. I was saddened by the fact that there are about 73 countries in existent that still practice corporal punishment today. The use of corporal punishment is an act of cruelty and it is my belief that children are to be protected and not be mentally or physically abused in any capacity.

 

Although this type of punishment still exist today, there are many educational systems that prohibit the practice of corporal punishment of children. It is said that there are approximately 125 countries that prohibit this act. The report urges these nations to take action and undergo legal reforms and other measures to end the widespread violent punishment of children in learning settings (ACEI, 2015).

One way my organization prohibits the use of any corporal punishment is that  all of our employees, in-home providers, contractors and managerial staff have to sign our Employee Standards of Conduct Policy, in which, corporal punishment is highlighted and is not tolerated at all. All of our parents that use our programs are given the parent handbook and made aware of our policy.

 

Much can be said about abuse and corporal punishment of children. Whether children are being abused at home or in schools, the act of corporal punishment is wrong and inhuman and should never be used as a scare tactic or form of discipline in any capacity.  I understand that there are many cultures that STILL practice this but this is where advocates and policy makers both nationally and internationally must take action and continue to fight for the rights of children. Policymakers and advocates have an obligation to fight even harder on the behalf of children. 

 

I love the philosophy of the ACEI which states, "a school should be a safe and friendly environment for all children, not a place where they are physically or mentally harmed by educators or caregivers. Research has shown that the emotional and physical effects of corporal punishment hinder children’s ability to learn, and negatively affects children’s physical, social, emotional, and educational development. Thus, when corporal punishment occurs in schools, it interferes with a child’s right to education" (ACEI, 2015). 
 

The Association for Childhood Education International is committed to supporting children’s basic rights and ensuring their safety, health, and dignity, and is therefore a supporter of the Global Initiative to End Corporal Punishment. 

 

Reference:

http://www.acei.org

 

 

ESTABLISHING PROFESSIONAL CONTACTS & EXPANDING RESOURCES

Establishing Professional Contacts

For this week’s Blog assignment we were asked to contact at least two early childhood professionals outside the United States.  I was led to navigate through the UNICEF organization in hopes of receiving a reply back from an early childhood professional.  I was particularly interested in reaching out to  Pretoria, South Africa, Malaysia and Nigeria.  I initiated contact via emailing each of the organization’s contact email addresses.  In my email attempt, I explained who I am, the reason I was contacting them and thanking them for responding back to my email inquiry. Thus far, I am still waiting to hear back from someone.  If I don't hear back by Monday evening at the latest, then I will move on to the next step, which requires listening to archives of broadcasts offered by The World Forum. Hopefully , I'll hear back, as I am really eager and interested in making contact with an early childhood professional outside the country that can share his/her experience, expertise and knowledge in the field of early childhood relating to issues and trends.   

 

Expanding Resources 

On another note, my selection of choice for this assignment for “Expanding Resources” required that I take a look at the various websites provided and choose which organization I wanted to learn more about. I reviewed them all and have narrowed it down to two. I selected, Association for Childhood Education International (ACEI) because I wanted to learn more about what this  organization is doing on an international level.  I also am interested in the National Black Child Development Institute (NBCDI).  My interest in this specific organization as an African American woman helps me to give back and help my culture better educate and prepare our children for their future. Both of these organizations seem fitting and have much to offer. 

                                                                     
                                                     "MY SUPPORTS"

The factors I find most important and supportive to me are God, my husband, my mom and my group of friends that pray for me on a regular basis. My relationship in Christ is the highest priority and over the years have kept me centered in everything that I do. All of my life's journey and accomplishments have been with my strong faith in God, which is my spiritual support and lifeline.  My support from my husband in every aspect has been rewarding and consistent for the past twenty eight years. He has loved me, encouraged me, helped me and supported me throughout the  years. His support has been emotionally, physically and financially. His love and support provided to me has helped me to evolve into the better women, wife, mother, daughter, nana, friend and supporter to others throughout my journey. My mom has also been supportive as well. She has been there for me since I was born. What an awesome support system I have received for over fifty years now. The support she has provided over my lifetime has been rewarding and forever cherished. I also have a group of friends that have been a support system for the past 10 years now. They have prayed for me and my family and vice versa for years. Whatever the reason, season or need they have been there as well. Having these supporters in my life has made a huge impact in my life and has helped me push harder through some difficult times. I am blessed beyond measure to have supporters in my life!

The challenge I chose to think about is if a diagnosis of a terminal illness was given by my physician. My thoughts would be one of many as I would try and process what I was told. I would have to fight off feelings of "fear" that would probably try and cripple me. These feelings would provoke me to further rely on my faith in God to see me through. With that being said, I would want all my supporters, my husband, mom, family and friends to not be sad and feel sorry for me but to help celebrate me and the time left. I would also want my supports and I to spend as much time together as we could and make precious memories enjoying each other and doing the things that make us happy, laughing and joking. Spending quality time with them would be important and letting each one know how important they are to me would be my goal. My hardest thing to do would be to tell my children and grand children and the sadness I would feel not being able to see my grand babies grow up and have families of their own. Leaving my husband and wanting to make sure he would find love again and be happy. All of my supports in my life are needed and I wouldn't know what life would be like without each of them. I think about the lack of emotional, financial, spiritual and physical support I would be without if they did not exist in my life. I couldn't imagine not having them there to help me though this difficult challenge and time. Every person in life must have a support system of some kind to help them accomplish, receive, complete or benefit in life.

                      

"MY CONNECTIONS TO PLAY"
 

 

It’s better to play than do nothing.
 

Confucious

 

Play is often talked about as if it were a relief from serious learning. But for children play is serious learning. Play is really the work of childhood.” 
 

 Fred Rogers

Children need the freedom and time to play. Play is not a luxury. Play is a necessity.

Kay Redfield Jamison

   

These images tells of the importance of play. 

 

                  Playing the game and singing the song, "Oh Mary,  Mack, Mack, Mack"! 

Hopscotch, those were the days!  

 

 

Summer beach vacations at Wild Wood N.J.   

 

 

 

Jump rope was my biggest time of play 

 

 

 

The love of JACKS..

 

During my childhood years, play was the most important part of my life. We loved to be outdoors, all day and everyday. My parents did not have to make me go outdoors to play or move me away from a television or some type of  electronic device, except for the record player. I automatically played indoors and outdoors almost everyday as long as homework was completed. My pictures above display the types of activities that kept me occupied as a child. We made up games, played hide and go seek, clapped hands and made up songs, jumped lots of jump rope, rode bikes, played jacks and played dodge ball. These are just a few of the play activities I really enjoyed. I was a tomboy and loved to chase and play with my brothers. While keeping up with my brother, and riding on the handle bars of the bike, I fell off and broke my collar bone. I still remember the incident and spent my first grade year in a shoulder sling.

Play was supported by teachers, parents and communities. It was just the natural thing to do. Within school settings, we were required to have recess, which was about 50 to 55 minutes a day. This was the most fun part of the day where we had a chance to run, skip and jump, and most importantly, hang with our friends and buy pretzels and brownies for 15 cents during my elementary and middle school years. As I moved to high school, physical education was offered. We spent at least 3 days out of the week doing physical education classes. Parents also supported play. We were outdoors and playing in parks, and streets all the time. My parents did not mind us being outside as long as chores and homework was done. Our communities also encouraged play. We experienced many days where growing up in our community consisted of play days. Our community would close down the block and turn on the fire hydrant and we would have fun splashing in the water.

Today's play activities are quite different than when I was growing up. In school, at home or in communities,  play is down played and not given the balance that children need to become and remain healthy. Children today are far more interested in electronics and technology. Sitting in front of  smart phones, computers and everything electronic is the language children speak today.  Communities, schools, parents and programs should go back to the basics and help promote and engage children in the importance of play and incorporate it in standards and curriculum. Children will become smarter, healthier, and happier and able to cope with future circumstances.