Early Childhood Education

BY DOREEN PETERSON

Historical InfluencesJohn Locke• He believed that modeling, observing, and praise was beneficial in the classroom.

• Whenever I’m introducing a new concept or habit training , I first model the expectation then give the children several opportunities to practice what is being taught. As they improve or accomplish the goal, they are given praise along the way.• First, I introduce a letter for the week with a flashcard.• I model the letter: “Mm says mmm as in milk, Mm says mmm.”• The class repeats the sentence several times.• Each child has a turn saying the sentence by themselves.• The class claps after each child has a turn, this encouragement provides positive praise so

the child does not give up.• Other opportunities to reinforce the letter “Mm” is done during science and art time.

Historical InfluencesJean-Jacques Rousseau• Stressed the importance of play

• Play is a scheduled part of our everyday lesson.• Play assists in the development of communication as the children talk with their

friends, listen to each other, try to work through problems, read and write through play.• In our grocery store play area, the children are working on number skills,

figuring out how to fit items in different size bags, how to take turns with the cash register, and how to make signs for sale items.

Historical Influences

Jean-Jacques Rousseau• Believed that children’s curiosity was a source of learning

• As opportunities arise and children’s curiosity is peaked, I am always open to assisting the children in finding more information.• Recently, one of the preschoolers found a picture of an insect in a

book that he wanted to know more about. Even though this was not part of our lesson plan, we looked up information on the internet and watched a video on it. The class became very interested in the

insect and even drew pictures.

Roles and Responsibilities as an Educator

• Provide a Christian education• Provide a safe learning environment• Promote creativity• Schedule activities that meet the children’s needs• Motivate and inspire the children to advance on their individual

learning journey• Keep records of children’s progress and learning needs• Guide the children in directions that interest them• Partner with the children in their learning experiences• Listen and communicate with children, parents, and other

stakeholders

Fulfilling Roles and Responsibilities

• The love of Jesus is at the center of our program. Through Bible lessons, prayer, and daily experiences, the children learn the way Christ wants us to live and interact with each other.

• We practice safety drills monthly, toys and learning materials are kept neatly on shelves, electrical outlets are covered, and damaged items are repaired or tossed out.

• Lesson plans and learning activities include the needs and well being of each individual.

Fulfilling Roles and Responsibilities (cont.)

• I provide the classroom with developmentally appropriate materials that spark their interests and give them enough time to explore and play as they interact with their classmates.

• The children’s progress is kept on written documentations as well as journals, conference forms, and portfolios.

• I greet each student and parent at the start of day as my first form of communication. I have a whiteboard that I write on each day that lets the parents know what we have done. Pictures of what we did during the week are put on our face book page.

Developmental Needs of Children

• Children need a caring teacher who is excited to guide them through decision making and learning.

• The children need a teacher who is patient as they learn and develop to solve problems and cooperate with others.

• Teachers need to interact with their students. • The classroom needs to give the children a sense of security where they can grow

socially, emotionally, and cognitively.• The classroom needs developmentally appropriate materials for the children to

experience.

Meeting Developmental Needs

• Teaching has always been my passion.• I truly care about all of my students and I am excited to guide them through their

learning experiences. The parents have often told me that my enthusiasm makes for an enjoyable learning experience for their children.

• I have realized that even the smallest caring gesture can have a huge impact.• I understand that as children learn they will make many mistakes and I am very

patient as they are trying to work through problems and get along with others. • The first interaction with my students is the warm greeting they receive from me

each day.• I make sure that when a child has something to say, I really listen by making eye

contact with them. When responding, I use a calm and pleasant voice.

Working effectively with families• Communicate verbally and in writing on a regular basis• Provide curriculum and themes• Greet the parents and caregivers at the door• Plan open house activities, “Donuts with Dads”, “Muffins with Moms”• Offer one-on-one conferences• Post our daily activities• Invite parents to help in the classroom • Utilize social media (primarily Facebook) to announce activities and show

children’s participation• Host family nights, reading nights, and intergenerational activities

Working effectively with the community

• Attend monthly council meetings• Collaborate with volunteer participants on our preschool board• Advertise activities through church bulletins, church sign, preschool newsletters, and

Facebook• Invite the community to participate in our annual “Trunk or Treat” event• Participate in the 4th of July parade

Differentiating Characteristics

• I have 32 years of experience working with preschoolers.• My passion is my job.• I enjoy working with children and their parents.• I am organized and flexible.• My excitement is contagious.• My caring nature is evident.• I have had the opportunity to see my former preschoolers become

adults.

Positive Affects• The environment inspires them to learn.• Teaming with parents helps children grow in confidence and self-

esteem.• They are in a place where they feel loved and nurtured.• They are able to take responsibility for their own development.

References

Eliason, C., & Jenkins, L. (2016). A practical guide to early childhood curriculum. Pearson.