Last September I took a huge step forward for myself when I began this journey. I did not expect to grow and learn as much as I have. Three learnings form this journey that I carry forward with me as I continue to develop more into the early childhood professional I aspire to be are:
- Families are vital. We need to value and cultivate these relationships to the full extent. No matter the barriers encountered, take the time to learn from them to better support the young child in your care. The early years happen so quickly but supporting every parent you work with will lay a foundation for many other professionals to grow upon.
- Equity and equality are very different. I need to strive at all times to ensure all young children are support in a manner that allows for each child to be able to participate to his/her full extent. This may mean that a child needs more support than another.
- Early childhood professionals need others to support and collaborate with one another. This is done in many ways and allows for each other to view through another lens. Learning through someone will bring forth the perspectives of any bias and how to ensure every person is treated in a manner that is best for all. Growing with my colleagues throughout this program has allowed me to reflect upon my own bias and also to learn with others.
These quotes are ones that inspire me not only professionally but also personally. Kindness and compassion are very important and play is the core of who I am and what I do.
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| Photo Credit: coconutcoveplay.com |
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| Photo Credit: bored teachers.com |
A long term goal for myself, is to develop myself as a mentor for other early childhood teachers. I will seek mentorship training as well as continue to grow in the classroom for further experience. This program has shown me the importane for teachers who are able to be fair and also passionate each day.
Thank you colleagues of group 2. Each week we were able to persevere and grow our breadth of knowledge. This journey was different for each of us but completing it is just the beginning for many of us as we may seek a position that is worthy of our passion in the early childhood field. Do not forget how strong you are and your dedication to yourself and use this to influence and encourage others as you have done for me these past 8 weeks.
Dr. Embree, I appreciate your time and dedication throughout this course. Your guidance and encouragement week after week led each of us to this final point. A year ago when I embarked on this journey, you were my first instructor and to bookend my accomplishment with your instruction I am thankful for inspiring early childhood professionals who are able to inspire and support others.
I will leave each of you with one of my favorite insights from a young man who has inspired me to be better each day.
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| Photo Credit: kid president.com |
Love your insight and positivity. Continue to grow and learn and inspire yourself, so you can inspire the children that look up to you each day.
ReplyDeleteMallory,
DeleteThan you very much for the kind reply and congratulations on the completed of this course. I am excited for your next chapter as you continue to grow and cultivated yourself as an early childhood professional.
Sarah Kasco
Sarah
ReplyDeleteCongratulation! this academic journey is truly amazing. Thank you for your valuable insight and feedback. I have enjoyed collaborating with you and our other colleagues. I am sure whatever path you take that you be successful. Continue to live your best life. ~Marie
P.S. Like you, I like Kid president
Marie,
DeleteI truly appreciate your reply. I know your defemination has carried your through this program. It have been a true delight learning with you and through your posts each week.
Congratulations on completing this course and reaching this major milestone.
Sarah Kasco
Sarah-
ReplyDeleteYour last quote you included is so important. I know that Kid President is intended to be funny and light, but the idea that we can disagree and still respect and collaborate with each other is vital to the current mood of our country. The way that we shared ideas and grew from the knowledge and wisdom from others in this program is proof that this is not a lost idea. We as early childhood professionals can champion positive sharing of ideas and effect positive social change.
Thank you for helping me grow as a professional over the past weeks, and I cannot wait to see the great things you will accomplish in the future.
Bri Wolfe
Bri,
DeleteYes, Kid President is so inspiring and his honesty is something I have always admired. The truth he shares allows for much reflection. I can disagree with any person and that does not make me or that other person 'bad', we just see things differently and that is what makes life interesting.
Thank you for inspiring me each week and allowing me to see my project through a different view. Congratulations and best of luck with your future endeavors.
Sarah Kasco