...But for this blog assignment of making international contacts, I wouldn't have known that issues such as poverty and inequity in quality Early Childhood EC exists in countries all around the world. I used to think these issues were peculiar to the under developed countries where poverty has eaten deep into the system.
First, I appreciate the information I got from Janella (a classmate) about Michigan. Apart from this, Janella made me do a research on EC in France which was so helpful in our discussion and assignments. Exchanging information with her, I learnt about these issues in Michigan and the various approach the community is using to reduce or eradicate them. Through this assignment, I have been able to reaffirm my goal of working in a French preschool knowing that France ranks one of the best in ECE. Thanks to Janella who brought up the idea of exchanging information about our resident countries!
Although, I met Chris Hussey towards the end of this course, but I am glad I did meet him. A professional relationship has been established and I can always contact him when the need be. In this short time, I got useful information from Chris that enlightened me on the general practices of ECE in the UK. I appreciate this contact because UK is nearer home and I can always decide to go over for a research practice or even jobs. Chris Hussey introduced me to more websites of ECE which will be added to my archives of useful sites. I can learn about trends in ECE in the UK from these sites.
Now, I feel I am part of the big family of EC professionals knowing that I can reach or make contacts with any other professional around the globe.
I am looking forward to making use of the information I got during this course as I relate with children of various background. I appreciate the fact that each culture and country has their strengths and weaknesses, I will work on children and families' individual strengths in order to make up for their weaknesses.
Finally, It was nice working with my (Group1) classmates this term. I was always challenged by the quality of information I got from the discussion board; and to Dr. Myers I say thanks for sharing a part of your knowledge and time with us. I appreciate so much also your understanding. Wishing everyone the best as we forge ahead in our academic pursuit!!
Friday, December 20, 2013
Friday, December 13, 2013
Getting to Know my International Contact
Many thanks to Chris of the British Association of Early Childhood Education UK who was helpful with this blog assignment. Chris is based in the UK and he confirmed that the issue of teacher qualification is also on a top gear in the UK. From one of the sites he sent to me, there are debates on whether EC teachers should possess a degree or not and majority have voted in affirmation. But Chris said something that bugs me, he said some of the best teachers he had in the past were not degree holders, how do we then relate this to the fact that a teacher's qualification has a direct effect on children's development which Chris also confirmed? He is of the opinion that education might not be the ultimate in becoming a well seasoned teacher. Other issues of concern in the UK are school readiness and standardization.
Just like in some of the resources we read this week, teachers or EC professionals are expected to have regular training and upgrade of certificates in the UK. This should be done by employers
Chris hopes to be a research practitioner in the field of Education which it's why he is doing his PhD in Education. He looks forward to postulating more critical theories and has some already published. And then, he hopes to finish up as a consultant.
Chris' greatest challenge like most of us is fund to complete his PhD program. I wish Chris all the best in his pursuit in life.
Just like in some of the resources we read this week, teachers or EC professionals are expected to have regular training and upgrade of certificates in the UK. This should be done by employers
Chris hopes to be a research practitioner in the field of Education which it's why he is doing his PhD in Education. He looks forward to postulating more critical theories and has some already published. And then, he hopes to finish up as a consultant.
Chris' greatest challenge like most of us is fund to complete his PhD program. I wish Chris all the best in his pursuit in life.
Some helpful sites sent to me by Chris. Teachers qualification debate http://www.daynurseries.co.uk/news/article.cfm/id/26/Debate-should-early-years-teachers-have-qualifed-teacher-status
Issues of School readiness and standardization
Saturday, December 7, 2013
EHS and Families
One of the outside links displayed on ZeroToThree website is Early Head Start https://eclkc.ohs.acf.hhs.gov/hslc/tta-system/ehsnrc. From this website, I decided to read about Home or family visitors as I am inclined to the fact Vasquez (personal communication, 2013) shared this week that families play a crucial role in children development. From this web page, families testified to the fact that visit from Early head start or EC professionals has been so beneficial to them. Some parents admitted that they were novice in child upbringing until they met some officials who saw them through challenging times with their kids. An important area that I appreciated the work of head start with families is their relationship with pregnant mothers. Knowing that development starts from the womb (Berger, 2012), Early head start take their time to lecture and nurture expectant mothers. They do this not minding culture or language difference which has solved the issue of inequity in terms of culture.
To me, this information is new as I don't live in the US, and it's good to hear and know that Early Head Start follow up expectant families and families with young children; helping and educating them in several areas like breastfeeding, sleeping methods, play, etc.
Funding is a major reason for inequity as we saw in our resources this week. As I searched this site further, I read that a certain amount of money was given to Early head start for the training and degree upgrading of her staff, so that all Early Head start teachers have at least associate baccalaureate or other higher degrees and then working experience. This will help teachers be responsive as child development has been linked to teacher's qualification.
References
Berger, K. S. (2012). The developing person through childhood. Worth Publishers, NY New York
To me, this information is new as I don't live in the US, and it's good to hear and know that Early Head Start follow up expectant families and families with young children; helping and educating them in several areas like breastfeeding, sleeping methods, play, etc.
Funding is a major reason for inequity as we saw in our resources this week. As I searched this site further, I read that a certain amount of money was given to Early head start for the training and degree upgrading of her staff, so that all Early Head start teachers have at least associate baccalaureate or other higher degrees and then working experience. This will help teachers be responsive as child development has been linked to teacher's qualification.
References
Berger, K. S. (2012). The developing person through childhood. Worth Publishers, NY New York
Saturday, November 30, 2013
Excellence and Equity in Michigan Preschools
Thankfully, I just got a response from an International Contact in the United Kingdom who has promised to be helpful in subsequent assignments.
But for the now, I am still working with Janella who has told me about preschools in Michigan. First, it gladdens my heart that efforts are being made in revitalising preschool program in Michigan through Michigan Sandbox Party and Great start Readiness. Michigan Sandbox party is a community-based organization of early childhood professionals who try their best in making sure that every child in Michigan gets quality education by soliciting for investors in early childhood.
On the other hand, Great Start Readiness is a competitive grant awarded by the state government to the Highscope research team. This is to assist poor and at-risk Michigan families in sending their children to school. And from research, it is observed children who attend Michigan Great Start Readiness Programs (MGSRP) do well in subsequent classes. I appreciate so much the fact that MGSRP is ranked one of the best programs amongst states due to its curriculum and teachers qualification .
Ironically, the data shows that not every child in Michigan has the privilege of attending MGSRP maybe due to lack of enough fund, as the fund granted by the government is competitive. This buoys down to the fact that inequity (due to teachers' qualification, government policy, availability of funds, and community locale) in early childhood education is eminent in Michigan.
Obviously, issues of funding, lack of enough infrastructure are the order of the day in Michigan preschools. But it is encouraging that these issues are being tackled on a community basis.
I sincerely do hope inequity will be a thing of the past as soon as possible!
But for the now, I am still working with Janella who has told me about preschools in Michigan. First, it gladdens my heart that efforts are being made in revitalising preschool program in Michigan through Michigan Sandbox Party and Great start Readiness. Michigan Sandbox party is a community-based organization of early childhood professionals who try their best in making sure that every child in Michigan gets quality education by soliciting for investors in early childhood.
On the other hand, Great Start Readiness is a competitive grant awarded by the state government to the Highscope research team. This is to assist poor and at-risk Michigan families in sending their children to school. And from research, it is observed children who attend Michigan Great Start Readiness Programs (MGSRP) do well in subsequent classes. I appreciate so much the fact that MGSRP is ranked one of the best programs amongst states due to its curriculum and teachers qualification .
Ironically, the data shows that not every child in Michigan has the privilege of attending MGSRP maybe due to lack of enough fund, as the fund granted by the government is competitive. This buoys down to the fact that inequity (due to teachers' qualification, government policy, availability of funds, and community locale) in early childhood education is eminent in Michigan.
Obviously, issues of funding, lack of enough infrastructure are the order of the day in Michigan preschools. But it is encouraging that these issues are being tackled on a community basis.
I sincerely do hope inequity will be a thing of the past as soon as possible!
Retrieved from: http://michigan.gov/mde/0,4615,7-140-43092-20374--,00.html
Saturday, November 23, 2013
Sharing wWeb Resources
Just right on time, I received a newsletter from zero to three that discussed about a virtual rally organised focusing on babies and toddlers development. One major emphasis was that learning starts as early as at birth. Therefore, government and individuals should pump in more money into early childhood so as to achieve a quality program. The rally yielded a positive response as about 40,000 people showed interest in asking the government to invest in early childhood and be more concerned with every child's growth and development. Indeed, quality early childhood program has come to stay seeing people are showing so much interest and support. Even as I aim at becoming a policy maker in EC Field, I can see how influential this position could be and I hope to make policies that would be beneficial to every child and family.
I join ZeroToThree in celebrating the military month (November) and pray God to uphold and protect military families.
It is very sympathetic that only 4% of eligible children attend head start (zeroto three). This makes it clear that only the government might not be able to achieve a quality early childhood program that will serve all children. Hence, I think policy makers should make policies that will include privately owned children centres insisting on quality standards, While the government makes plans to build more centres.
Brain development is a research project of neuroscientists. On almost every page of the zerotothree has it that the first three years of human is the fastest growing stage where the brain develop so quickly. Emphasis are made on types of toys to buy; building on emotional development; improving on play and creating more positive experiences from birth to age 3 in order to build healthy and creative brains.
From the issue of funds, I can see that parents are identifying with this issue which might give it a quick attention and consideration. As a result, quality early childhood will sweep around the whole nation with every child benefiting.
Resource
www.ZEROTOTHREE.com
Saturday, November 16, 2013
Poverty in China
I am yet to receive any confirmation mails from my international contacts. But I hope to exchange information with Janella, a classmate as we continue with this course. She lives at Michigan and works in Early Head Start.
A study on poverty in China(the most populous Nation in the world) reveals that even the poor are interested in giving education to their children even if not the best standard.This could also account for the reason why poverty is reducing in recent times. Rural poverty decreased from about 30.7% to about 3.7% and just about 4 - 8% live in poverty in Urban areas in 2001; and in general, 5% of the whole population live below the poverty line. Like in most countries, the major reason for poverty in China is unemployment.
Also they acknowledge the fact that investing in early childhood education is a way of reducing poverty.
Interestingly, the government allocates a piece of land to every rural family, relief some families of paying agricultural taxes when farm produce is poor and then provide food, clothing and shelter for the very poor families. But the government needs to consider children from the rural areas in terms of education as poor children in rural areas account for the majority part of poor children as a whole in China. Unfortunately, poor children in rural areas are prevented from going to school due to some extra cost fees placed on education, hence in order to cope about 70% of them cut down on their food intake, borrow from friends and relatives, rather than wait solely on the government.
It is obvious to me now that poverty is a global issue. Though it is conspicuous in most African and Asian countries, I am beginning to see that poverty exists in every community and the role of the government is crucial in eradicating poverty.
References
http://www.childhoodpoverty.org/index.php?action=country
http://www.childhoodpoverty.org/index.php/action=documentfeed/doctype=pdf/id=83/
Saturday, November 9, 2013
Sharing web resources
Zero To Three (www.zerotothree.org) as a non-profit organisation deals with issues about infants/toddlers, parents and families, EC professionals and policy makers. They recognise the fact that the first three years of one's life has so much effects on the later years, hence Zero To Three help parents and EC professionals in bringing about children's development at this early stage.
One of the news letters I read this week talked about how states can be involved in infants/toddlers education. Achieving and sustaining a quality program has been emphasized in our program, hence I thought it useful to use this check list in observing what states are doing for children in the US and to get ideas that I could use in my country in order to help raise the standard of infant/toddler care. Knowing states have a major role to play in achieving quality in early childhood field, EC professionals must maintain a flow of communication with the government to ensure issues are well handled.
This week I decided to work on traumatised (or war affected) children in our application. It aroused my interest when I saw an article on Zero to Three stating what some states are presently doing with regards to this issue. Though not necessarily children that were involved in war per se, but children who have been maltreated one way or the other are being catered for by some states. It gladdens my heart that some states train EC professionals for this task. Knowing that traumas cause developmental set backs for children, then it is worth tackling.
References
ZERO TO THREE (2013). Ensuring assessment services for all maltreated for all infants and toddlers. Retrieved from http://www.zerotothree.org/policy/docs/ensuring-assessments-and-services.pdf
ZERO TO THREE (2009). Infants and toddlers in the policy picture. Retrieved from http://www.zerotothree.org/public-policy/building-early-childhood-systems/checklistsinglesmar5.pdf
One of the news letters I read this week talked about how states can be involved in infants/toddlers education. Achieving and sustaining a quality program has been emphasized in our program, hence I thought it useful to use this check list in observing what states are doing for children in the US and to get ideas that I could use in my country in order to help raise the standard of infant/toddler care. Knowing states have a major role to play in achieving quality in early childhood field, EC professionals must maintain a flow of communication with the government to ensure issues are well handled.
This week I decided to work on traumatised (or war affected) children in our application. It aroused my interest when I saw an article on Zero to Three stating what some states are presently doing with regards to this issue. Though not necessarily children that were involved in war per se, but children who have been maltreated one way or the other are being catered for by some states. It gladdens my heart that some states train EC professionals for this task. Knowing that traumas cause developmental set backs for children, then it is worth tackling.
References
ZERO TO THREE (2013). Ensuring assessment services for all maltreated for all infants and toddlers. Retrieved from http://www.zerotothree.org/policy/docs/ensuring-assessments-and-services.pdf
ZERO TO THREE (2009). Infants and toddlers in the policy picture. Retrieved from http://www.zerotothree.org/public-policy/building-early-childhood-systems/checklistsinglesmar5.pdf
Saturday, November 2, 2013
Establishing Professional Contacts
I tried making contacts with early childhood professionals in Nigeria, Ghana, The Netherlands, India and Canada by sending mails to the listed contacts in the resources. Unfortunately, I got mailer-daemon responses from Canada, Ghana and The Netherlands. I am yet to receive responses from Nigeria and India contacts. I sincerely do hope that I get positive responses because I have been longing to have mentors in this field.
I have always received newsletters from ZEROTOTHREE but this time I registered with my Walden email address and hope to establish a formal contact with them. I subscribed also for newsletters from National Institute for Early Education Research NIEER and sent a mail (asking for a professional contact) to National Black Child Development Institute.
In future, I will prefer exploring the NIEER website because I enjoy reading about research works and they've got some interesting topics on early childhood.
I have always received newsletters from ZEROTOTHREE but this time I registered with my Walden email address and hope to establish a formal contact with them. I subscribed also for newsletters from National Institute for Early Education Research NIEER and sent a mail (asking for a professional contact) to National Black Child Development Institute.
In future, I will prefer exploring the NIEER website because I enjoy reading about research works and they've got some interesting topics on early childhood.
Friday, October 11, 2013
MY SUPPORTS
Living in France with just my hubby and kids has been quite challenging because there are no relatives to help when I am choked up with chores and academic work. But thanks to the French system that has made provision for child-care centres.
My greatest supports are my children's school and care minder respectively. My daughter who is 4 stays in school till 4.45pm daily except on Wednesdays and my son (2yrs old) who found it difficult adjusting initially stays with his care minder till 5pm daily except on Wednesdays which he stays home with me all day. I try to do all I have to do during school hours and make sure I spend the remaining part of the evenings with my husband and kids. Just of recent I was able to talk my husband into participating in school runs which he gladly does now, so it is much better for me than it used to be last year. Calls I receive from my mum in Nigeria almost on a daily basis keep me going, indeed she is my emotional support after my husband. Financially, my husband has been very supportive--Kudos to him.
It was pretty difficult initially when my daughter stayed at school till 11.30am and my son was home with me everyday. School runs was not palatable as I had to drop her by 9am and then pick her in the next 2hrs. Without the support of my hubby and children's school, maybe I wouldn't have been able to meet up with my academics and other social engagements. Thanks to them all.
My greatest supports are my children's school and care minder respectively. My daughter who is 4 stays in school till 4.45pm daily except on Wednesdays and my son (2yrs old) who found it difficult adjusting initially stays with his care minder till 5pm daily except on Wednesdays which he stays home with me all day. I try to do all I have to do during school hours and make sure I spend the remaining part of the evenings with my husband and kids. Just of recent I was able to talk my husband into participating in school runs which he gladly does now, so it is much better for me than it used to be last year. Calls I receive from my mum in Nigeria almost on a daily basis keep me going, indeed she is my emotional support after my husband. Financially, my husband has been very supportive--Kudos to him.
It was pretty difficult initially when my daughter stayed at school till 11.30am and my son was home with me everyday. School runs was not palatable as I had to drop her by 9am and then pick her in the next 2hrs. Without the support of my hubby and children's school, maybe I wouldn't have been able to meet up with my academics and other social engagements. Thanks to them all.
Saturday, September 28, 2013
My Connections to Play
Play used to be fun and enjoyable. One vivid thing I remember was that we rarely played inside the house. We always played outside running around with friends, played with sand, did pretend cooking with grass and sand. Hide and seek was one of my delights. We went to the beach almost every weekend where I had the opportunity to taste the salty water and walked bare footed feeling the different sand texture. Play was a part of my everyday life, I was asked not to play only if I misbehaved or had some tests to do at school. I had very few toys compared to what any child in the 21st century would have.
Sincerely, I think we were allowed such an amount of play because our parents and older siblings saw us as disturbances at home, so for this reason the door was always opened for us to go play. I don't think our parents knew of any benefits of play. But thanks to instinct!
I was very shy as a kid but I remember I never used to be shy when I played with my friends, probably the 'plays' I had then made me overcome shyness. Through play, I was able to listen and learn of some African folk tales. But today, children mostly play indoors with lots of toys and technological gadgets. Due to the security situation, children no more have the freedom to play in the neighbourhood. Staying indoors always will prevent children from having a feel of nature. The amount of play I had as a child help me relate well with people because I was able to socialize while I played.
I hope to be an advocate in this area and sincerely wish that the old era of play be restored.
The following quotes summarize my 'play life' as a kid:
''You can't stop the future,
You can't rewind the past,
The only way to learn the secret is to press play''. Jah Asher
''Combinatory play seems to be the essential feature in productive thought''. Albert Einstein
''Play gives children a chance to practice what they are learning''. Mr. Rogers
''The creation of something new is not accomplished by the intellect but by the play instinct''. Carl Jung
''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 children.'' Fred Rogers
''Do not keep children to their studies by compulsion but by play.'' Plato
Sincerely, I think we were allowed such an amount of play because our parents and older siblings saw us as disturbances at home, so for this reason the door was always opened for us to go play. I don't think our parents knew of any benefits of play. But thanks to instinct!
I was very shy as a kid but I remember I never used to be shy when I played with my friends, probably the 'plays' I had then made me overcome shyness. Through play, I was able to listen and learn of some African folk tales. But today, children mostly play indoors with lots of toys and technological gadgets. Due to the security situation, children no more have the freedom to play in the neighbourhood. Staying indoors always will prevent children from having a feel of nature. The amount of play I had as a child help me relate well with people because I was able to socialize while I played.
I hope to be an advocate in this area and sincerely wish that the old era of play be restored.
The following quotes summarize my 'play life' as a kid:
''You can't stop the future,
You can't rewind the past,
The only way to learn the secret is to press play''. Jah Asher
''Combinatory play seems to be the essential feature in productive thought''. Albert Einstein
''Play gives children a chance to practice what they are learning''. Mr. Rogers
''The creation of something new is not accomplished by the intellect but by the play instinct''. Carl Jung
''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 children.'' Fred Rogers
''Do not keep children to their studies by compulsion but by play.'' Plato
As a kid, I enjoyed pretend play
Saturday, September 14, 2013
Relationship Reflection
Human beings generally are social beings and that explains why everyone is in a midst of several relationships ranging from families, friends, colleagues, acquaintance, etc. No wonder someone once said that the worst disease on earth is not HIV/AIDS but a feeling of loneliness and or rejection. Humans are meant to strive in the midst of relationships because no one just appeared from the sky--Everyone has got a link. Relationships are essential to our daily lives because needs are met when relationships exist; it could be a distant or close relationship.
Of course, the first relationship I experienced was that of my parents and siblings. We all stayed together as a nuclear family with cousins, aunts, uncles and other relatives coming to visit. I learnt from everyone in my family as I am the second to the last child. My mum paid attention to our school work and made sure we showed her our finished pens before she could issue another one. She made me recite the national anthem and the multiplication table and on the other hand my dad was more concerned with providing our needs like shelter, clothing, food, etc. It was like a shared responsibility. It was fun with my siblings because we played together and then still disagreed when the need arose. As a result of this, I was able to build a 'tough' skin that I was not scared of been bullied. Teasing was part of the game at home.
We still share such relationships now that we all grown but on a more mature tone.
Presently, I am married to Benneth and we've got two loving kids-Gavrila and Azriel. I try my best to relate so closely with my immediate family knowing the benefits and rewards. As a potential early childhood professional, I inform my husband on how best to relate with our kids; as a wife and mother I have learnt to play these roles independently.
Outside my family life, I relate with a couple of people around me. I've got some very close friends whom I chat with regularly. My nieces and nephews are so special to me. I make them feel free to tell me whatever is their problem. Once in a while I speak with my former lecturer and classmates. I seldom communicate with my pastor-friend from whom I have gained so much spiritually. I am in the process of building a relationship with my children's caregivers; but a barrier here is the difference in language. I speak English and my son's caregiver is French. I am trying so hard to learn French so as to break this jinx. Above all, my relationship with my husband and two kids is paramount to me presently.
Building relationships require an amount of effort. Like it is popularly said, ''if you want a friend then you be a friend too''. Initially there might be a barrier of ego, culture diversity, racism, lack of interest, etc. I am currently living in France and it's been quite a challenge mixing up with the French because of the language barrier and where there's no understanding there can't be a relationship.
For me, communication is the bedrock of relationships. I make an effort to use my smartphone to maintain these relationships. I call my mum almost on a daily basis. I gist with my children about anything they need to know, I gist and discuss with my husband.
I think one relationship I foresee to becoming partnership is that between me and my children's caregivers, because I relate with them as colleagues doing the same job as me. Though not there yet.
I have extended this act of building relationships to parents or family members of children I am working with. Knowing there are several benefits to building relationships, I hope to offer my best to children and families so as to achieve rewards that are beneficial to families and the society. These benefits may include a lesser rate of crime in the society, children showing more interest to further their education, children becoming loving and caring adults, etc.
My hubby and kids
Of course, the first relationship I experienced was that of my parents and siblings. We all stayed together as a nuclear family with cousins, aunts, uncles and other relatives coming to visit. I learnt from everyone in my family as I am the second to the last child. My mum paid attention to our school work and made sure we showed her our finished pens before she could issue another one. She made me recite the national anthem and the multiplication table and on the other hand my dad was more concerned with providing our needs like shelter, clothing, food, etc. It was like a shared responsibility. It was fun with my siblings because we played together and then still disagreed when the need arose. As a result of this, I was able to build a 'tough' skin that I was not scared of been bullied. Teasing was part of the game at home.
We still share such relationships now that we all grown but on a more mature tone.
Presently, I am married to Benneth and we've got two loving kids-Gavrila and Azriel. I try my best to relate so closely with my immediate family knowing the benefits and rewards. As a potential early childhood professional, I inform my husband on how best to relate with our kids; as a wife and mother I have learnt to play these roles independently.
Outside my family life, I relate with a couple of people around me. I've got some very close friends whom I chat with regularly. My nieces and nephews are so special to me. I make them feel free to tell me whatever is their problem. Once in a while I speak with my former lecturer and classmates. I seldom communicate with my pastor-friend from whom I have gained so much spiritually. I am in the process of building a relationship with my children's caregivers; but a barrier here is the difference in language. I speak English and my son's caregiver is French. I am trying so hard to learn French so as to break this jinx. Above all, my relationship with my husband and two kids is paramount to me presently.
Building relationships require an amount of effort. Like it is popularly said, ''if you want a friend then you be a friend too''. Initially there might be a barrier of ego, culture diversity, racism, lack of interest, etc. I am currently living in France and it's been quite a challenge mixing up with the French because of the language barrier and where there's no understanding there can't be a relationship.
For me, communication is the bedrock of relationships. I make an effort to use my smartphone to maintain these relationships. I call my mum almost on a daily basis. I gist with my children about anything they need to know, I gist and discuss with my husband.
I think one relationship I foresee to becoming partnership is that between me and my children's caregivers, because I relate with them as colleagues doing the same job as me. Though not there yet.
I have extended this act of building relationships to parents or family members of children I am working with. Knowing there are several benefits to building relationships, I hope to offer my best to children and families so as to achieve rewards that are beneficial to families and the society. These benefits may include a lesser rate of crime in the society, children showing more interest to further their education, children becoming loving and caring adults, etc.
My hubby and kidsFriday, June 28, 2013
When I Think of Child Development...
Then I wish all of these quotes could come true for our children:
I have also seen children successfully surmounting the effects of an evil inheritance. That is due to purity being an inherent attribute of the soul- Mahatma Gandhi.
Children must be taught how to think, not what to think- Margaret Mead.
I would be most content if my children grew up to be the kind of people who think decorating consists mostly of building enough book shelves- Anna Quindlen.
Children are made readers on the laps of their parents- Emilie Buchwald.
Nothing you do for children are ever wasted- Garrison Keiller.
It is easier to build strong children than to repair broken men- Fredrick Douglass.
There can be no keener revelation of a society's soul than the way in which it treats its children- Nelson Mandela.
Those who educate children well are more to be honoured than they who produce them; for these only gave them life, those the art of living well- Aristotle.
I have also seen children successfully surmounting the effects of an evil inheritance. That is due to purity being an inherent attribute of the soul- Mahatma Gandhi.
Children must be taught how to think, not what to think- Margaret Mead.
I would be most content if my children grew up to be the kind of people who think decorating consists mostly of building enough book shelves- Anna Quindlen.
Children are made readers on the laps of their parents- Emilie Buchwald.
Nothing you do for children are ever wasted- Garrison Keiller.
It is easier to build strong children than to repair broken men- Fredrick Douglass.
There can be no keener revelation of a society's soul than the way in which it treats its children- Nelson Mandela.
Those who educate children well are more to be honoured than they who produce them; for these only gave them life, those the art of living well- Aristotle.
Saturday, June 15, 2013
Intelligence Test
In my opinion, since human is made of three main parts, body, soul and spirit, then children should be assessed on these three areas to determine their wholesome development. For the body, physical activities like sports, dancing, personal hygiene etc. would be part of the assessing package. The soul could be assessed with cognitive activities like reading, school/academic work-maths, English, music, literature; and the development of the spirit could be tested by some sort of religious activities like meditation, religious studies, etc. Sounds a bit awkward here, I guess
In Malaysia, school age children are tested by written exams which whether passed or not leads to promotion to the next class. By age 7, children should be in primary school and it lasts for 6yrs. Between 1996-2000, the Level One Evaluation (Penitaian Tahap Satu) was administered to year 3 students which when passed, will lead to a double promotion from year3 to 5 but was stopped because parents were putting undue pressure on their children to pass this exam. To move on to secondary school, the Primary School Achievement Test (Ujan Pencapaian Sekolah Renda) must be written. The subjects tested are Malay comprehension, written Malay, English, Science and Mathematics. In addition to the five subjects, Chinese comprehension and written Chinese are compulsory in Chinese schools, while Tamil comprehension and written Tamil are compulsory in Tamil schools. Aptitude tests are also written and then multiple choice is tested using optical answer paper sheet which is also marked by an optical machine.
It's quiet unfortunate that most countries and schools test children mainly on academic achievement. I believe talents and natural abilities should be nurtured. Adding education to any talent one has will go a long way in making a big difference. But it seems most people go for one and not both. Most people who are making good use of their talents have little or no education and most people who have good academic degrees have swept their talents under the carpet and are just pursuing career.
Source
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Education_in_Malaysia
In Malaysia, school age children are tested by written exams which whether passed or not leads to promotion to the next class. By age 7, children should be in primary school and it lasts for 6yrs. Between 1996-2000, the Level One Evaluation (Penitaian Tahap Satu) was administered to year 3 students which when passed, will lead to a double promotion from year3 to 5 but was stopped because parents were putting undue pressure on their children to pass this exam. To move on to secondary school, the Primary School Achievement Test (Ujan Pencapaian Sekolah Renda) must be written. The subjects tested are Malay comprehension, written Malay, English, Science and Mathematics. In addition to the five subjects, Chinese comprehension and written Chinese are compulsory in Chinese schools, while Tamil comprehension and written Tamil are compulsory in Tamil schools. Aptitude tests are also written and then multiple choice is tested using optical answer paper sheet which is also marked by an optical machine.
It's quiet unfortunate that most countries and schools test children mainly on academic achievement. I believe talents and natural abilities should be nurtured. Adding education to any talent one has will go a long way in making a big difference. But it seems most people go for one and not both. Most people who are making good use of their talents have little or no education and most people who have good academic degrees have swept their talents under the carpet and are just pursuing career.
Source
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Education_in_Malaysia
Saturday, June 1, 2013
Consequences of Stress on Children Development
Noise is a common stressor in most African countries. I know of someone who grew up in a noisy part of Nigeria. She got accustomed to all manner of noise like horn blasts, children screaming and shouting while playing, noise of old cars and lorries, noise of heavy duty machines, very loud music of neighbours, etc. To this effect, she finds it difficult to sleep in a quiet or peaceful environment and may have to play some music while she sleeps. Reading without a music playing for is her is almost impossible as she said she does not enjoy silence. For me, I think it might be difficult for her to meditate or concentrate as these skills are needed for cognitive development. I feel this would have affected her ears too as she hardly hears low tone conversation and shouts while making phone calls. She probably might end up being a shouting parent in my opinion.
As I thought of a country to study about, South African Apartheid came to my mind and I am glad I did a research on it. I used to believe that apartheid has been completely eradicated in South Africa, but to my utmost surprise, I read that it still exists. South Africa has in existence more than one stressor like racism, violence, disease, hunger and poverty. South Africa has been called one of the most psychologically ill societies in the world because of the following reasons: high rates of family violence
It's among the highest divorced rate countries in the world
Fifth highest in the world coronary disease
Has a high rate of motor accident
Experience traumas linked to political unrest .
South Africans (Blacks) still face racism daily as it is reported that a black child is 18times more likely to grow up poor than his/her white counterpart. About 60% of children survive on 575rand($67 or 51euros); or around 2/3 of black children that are 18yrs and only 2% of white children--this is incredible! Ironically, out of 10million children, 8million are blacks.
All these of course affect their development. They have a high rate of disease amongst the children and malnutrition is common in the rural areas. 1/3 of under 14 are stunted and under weight. Some schools for the blacks lack cognitive tools to teach hence they are mentally retarded.
Sources:
AFP, 2012,Oct 17. South African Children still face apartheid- like inequality. Retrieved from
http://www.google.com/hostednews/afp/article/ALeqM5i2lY455I6yN3_HCfTOk4mONdAe9A?docId=CNG.c87c030182d8aa078508c64fcad776ba.3b1
Hickson & Kriegler (1991, June). The effects of apartheid on the mental health of South African Children. International Journal for the advancement of counselling Retrieved from http://link.springer.com/article/10.1007%2FBF00117733
As I thought of a country to study about, South African Apartheid came to my mind and I am glad I did a research on it. I used to believe that apartheid has been completely eradicated in South Africa, but to my utmost surprise, I read that it still exists. South Africa has in existence more than one stressor like racism, violence, disease, hunger and poverty. South Africa has been called one of the most psychologically ill societies in the world because of the following reasons: high rates of family violence
It's among the highest divorced rate countries in the world
Fifth highest in the world coronary disease
Has a high rate of motor accident
Experience traumas linked to political unrest .
South Africans (Blacks) still face racism daily as it is reported that a black child is 18times more likely to grow up poor than his/her white counterpart. About 60% of children survive on 575rand($67 or 51euros); or around 2/3 of black children that are 18yrs and only 2% of white children--this is incredible! Ironically, out of 10million children, 8million are blacks.
All these of course affect their development. They have a high rate of disease amongst the children and malnutrition is common in the rural areas. 1/3 of under 14 are stunted and under weight. Some schools for the blacks lack cognitive tools to teach hence they are mentally retarded.
Sources:
AFP, 2012,Oct 17. South African Children still face apartheid- like inequality. Retrieved from
http://www.google.com/hostednews/afp/article/ALeqM5i2lY455I6yN3_HCfTOk4mONdAe9A?docId=CNG.c87c030182d8aa078508c64fcad776ba.3b1
Hickson & Kriegler (1991, June). The effects of apartheid on the mental health of South African Children. International Journal for the advancement of counselling Retrieved from http://link.springer.com/article/10.1007%2FBF00117733
Friday, May 17, 2013
Child Development and Public Health
Breast Feeding.
Exclusive breastfeeding refers to feeding an infant with breast milk only without any other liquid or supplement during the first six months. From research this has a load of benefits to both mother and child. Exclusive breastfeeding has a potential to prevent at least 13%of all under five death in developing countries. Also, it could help avert about 55-87% of neonatal deaths.
Other benefits include:
It's easier to digest than formular
It fights diseases in children and mothers
Saves money
Helps mother-child bonding
It could help reduce the rate of breast & ovarian cancer, type 2 diabetes, postpatum depression, etc in women.
When breastfeeding as a woman,the oxytocin hormones are produced which can calme the woman.
Breastfeeding protects from risk of contaminated water supply in developing countries epecially
It has the right temperature and hence helps prevent hypothermia -a state where the body temperature drops below normal
For me, breastfeeding is most appropriate for infants; After reading the numerous benefits, I came to this conclusion. I practiced exclusive breastfeeding with my kids. Breastfeeding is meaningful to me because it's the cheapest means of protecting these littles from illness and malnutrition at the early stage of life particulary in the developing countries where the standard of living is relatively low.
Intrestingly, in Kuwait (one of the richest countries in the world), breastfeeding is not a popular practice due to the fact that formulars are well subsidized by the government and inadequate professional support. Mothers begin to give their babies water, juice and herbs from the very first month and about 32.8% below six months use bottles. Some other misconceptions about breastfeeding is that breast milk is not sufficient for infants; it is only meant for babies who came through ceaserean section, and only babies who spent some time in special care wards may need it. But, science has shown how small babies' stomachs are and that breast milk is just sufficient for this size, also all babies need breast milk whether full term or premature babies.
As a result of this, there's a high rate of 24% of chronic malnutrition amongst children who are under 5yrs of age in Kuwait despite her wealth.
From this data, breastfeeding could be beneficial to women and children in developing countries as it can reduce greatly the rate of malnutrition (one of the causes of infant deaths in developing countries).
Being aware of this information, I would be an advocate in this area by telling as many mothers (even fathers) that I know the benefits of breastfeeding. This information has also helped me in erasing my ignorance--before now, I used to think breast milk is not sufficient for twins or tripplets, but from research, reverse is the case. So, mothers with twins and tripplets could go ahead with exclusive breast feeding for some months(Berger, 2012). But the challenge here is with working mothers who especially are the breadwinners of their home--it might be pretty difficult to cope with exclusive breastfeeding
References
http://worldbreastfeedingtrends.org
http://unicef.org/media/images/fact_sheet.doc
http://womenhealth.gov
Exclusive breastfeeding refers to feeding an infant with breast milk only without any other liquid or supplement during the first six months. From research this has a load of benefits to both mother and child. Exclusive breastfeeding has a potential to prevent at least 13%of all under five death in developing countries. Also, it could help avert about 55-87% of neonatal deaths.
Other benefits include:
It's easier to digest than formular
It fights diseases in children and mothers
Saves money
Helps mother-child bonding
It could help reduce the rate of breast & ovarian cancer, type 2 diabetes, postpatum depression, etc in women.
When breastfeeding as a woman,the oxytocin hormones are produced which can calme the woman.
Breastfeeding protects from risk of contaminated water supply in developing countries epecially
It has the right temperature and hence helps prevent hypothermia -a state where the body temperature drops below normal
For me, breastfeeding is most appropriate for infants; After reading the numerous benefits, I came to this conclusion. I practiced exclusive breastfeeding with my kids. Breastfeeding is meaningful to me because it's the cheapest means of protecting these littles from illness and malnutrition at the early stage of life particulary in the developing countries where the standard of living is relatively low.
Intrestingly, in Kuwait (one of the richest countries in the world), breastfeeding is not a popular practice due to the fact that formulars are well subsidized by the government and inadequate professional support. Mothers begin to give their babies water, juice and herbs from the very first month and about 32.8% below six months use bottles. Some other misconceptions about breastfeeding is that breast milk is not sufficient for infants; it is only meant for babies who came through ceaserean section, and only babies who spent some time in special care wards may need it. But, science has shown how small babies' stomachs are and that breast milk is just sufficient for this size, also all babies need breast milk whether full term or premature babies.
As a result of this, there's a high rate of 24% of chronic malnutrition amongst children who are under 5yrs of age in Kuwait despite her wealth.
From this data, breastfeeding could be beneficial to women and children in developing countries as it can reduce greatly the rate of malnutrition (one of the causes of infant deaths in developing countries).
Being aware of this information, I would be an advocate in this area by telling as many mothers (even fathers) that I know the benefits of breastfeeding. This information has also helped me in erasing my ignorance--before now, I used to think breast milk is not sufficient for twins or tripplets, but from research, reverse is the case. So, mothers with twins and tripplets could go ahead with exclusive breast feeding for some months(Berger, 2012). But the challenge here is with working mothers who especially are the breadwinners of their home--it might be pretty difficult to cope with exclusive breastfeeding
References
http://worldbreastfeedingtrends.org
http://unicef.org/media/images/fact_sheet.doc
http://womenhealth.gov
Friday, May 10, 2013
Childbirth in My Life and Around the World
My daughter came at 1a.m on the 4th of October 2009 ( in her 41st week) after about 8hrs of labour. She weighed 3.6kg. Her prenatal development went well despite urinary tract infection I had. At some time I was asked to take antibiotics and other times was asked not to because it could be harmful on the emdryo, of course this was about the 3rd and 4th month. I was placed on calcium, folic acid, blood giving tablets and anti malaria drugs as malaria is a threat to pregnant women and children in Africa.
Contractions started on the previous day and I went to the clinic where I have always attended antenatat sessions. I was 2cm dilated but asked to stay back in the clinic as a first timer. After several contractions, I was about 8cm gone and was taken to the delivery room where I spent about 1hr before she finally came out through tht virginal with an episiotomy.
I chose this birth experience because it was my first and it served as an eye opener to me- my subsequent pregnancy was much easier because I was prepared for every stage as I knew what to expect.
For me, birth is closely related to child development because the definition of child development put into consideration life before, buring and after birth. Birthing methods and processes I believe should be handled by professionals. At birth, tisues and organs(which are the development target) are still tender. So, all care should be taken in handling them so as to prevent any damage to any of these parts.
In Nigeria, births still occur at home and some religious centres unlike in the US where about 100% of births take place in medical centres. Herbs and concotions are taken by some pregnant women in order to hasten child delivery. Malaria has been a threat to pregnant African women in the past years, hence antimalaria drugs are given as prevention all through the nine months. Malaria during pregnancy is said to be the cause of jundice at birth.
During delivery in most clinics, family members are not allowed into the delivery room except on emergencies. Pain relief are rarely given and Non-Invasive prenatal diagnosis is not so popular in Nigeria. The most popular method of detecting any deformity of feotus is through the ultrsound.
Fibroid during pregnancy is a common case in Nigeria but thanks to the improving medicine that is able to manage that.
Contractions started on the previous day and I went to the clinic where I have always attended antenatat sessions. I was 2cm dilated but asked to stay back in the clinic as a first timer. After several contractions, I was about 8cm gone and was taken to the delivery room where I spent about 1hr before she finally came out through tht virginal with an episiotomy.
 |
| Gavrila, My daughter |
I chose this birth experience because it was my first and it served as an eye opener to me- my subsequent pregnancy was much easier because I was prepared for every stage as I knew what to expect.
For me, birth is closely related to child development because the definition of child development put into consideration life before, buring and after birth. Birthing methods and processes I believe should be handled by professionals. At birth, tisues and organs(which are the development target) are still tender. So, all care should be taken in handling them so as to prevent any damage to any of these parts.
In Nigeria, births still occur at home and some religious centres unlike in the US where about 100% of births take place in medical centres. Herbs and concotions are taken by some pregnant women in order to hasten child delivery. Malaria has been a threat to pregnant African women in the past years, hence antimalaria drugs are given as prevention all through the nine months. Malaria during pregnancy is said to be the cause of jundice at birth.
During delivery in most clinics, family members are not allowed into the delivery room except on emergencies. Pain relief are rarely given and Non-Invasive prenatal diagnosis is not so popular in Nigeria. The most popular method of detecting any deformity of feotus is through the ultrsound.
Fibroid during pregnancy is a common case in Nigeria but thanks to the improving medicine that is able to manage that.
Friday, April 26, 2013
A Note of Thanks
I really appreciate every member of group2 for the level of understanding and support shown towards one another during our foundation course. I found learning more interesting during the last 8week period as it was done collaboratively. This is my first time online class and the first course turned out well. I sincerely hope we will all get at our goals as we forge ahead.
To Dr. Johnna, You are a motivator! Keep up the good work.
To Dr. Johnna, You are a motivator! Keep up the good work.
Friday, April 19, 2013
My IDEALS with respect to NAEYC and DEC Code of Ethics
Ideals (My Aspirations)
1-1.2--To base program practices upon current knowledge and research in the field of early childhood education, child development, and related disciplines, as well as on particular knowledge of each child. NAEYC, retrieved from http://www.naeyc.org/file/positions/PSETH05.pdf
I believe so much in being current and having so much information on any issue I am to deal with. Working with children is not an exception, so I hope to always read and base my practices on current research works about children so as to enable me give my best to children. Also to get vital tips from families about a child that would help me in working with the child.
1-1.5--To create and maintain safe and healthy settings that foster children's social, emotional, cognitive, and physical development and that respect their dignity and their contributions.NAEYC
The wholesome development of a child is paramont to me as an early childhood professional, hence, I will do my best possible to make sure I achieve this by creating a conducive physical environment and an healty 'emotional' environment that will make him/her feel secured, learn and grow at the same time.
. To empower families with information and resources so that they are informed consumers of services for their children. DEC, retrieved from http://www.dec-sped.org/
From our studies so far, the importance of family involvement in the complete development of a child cannot be over emphasized. I hope to carry families along by feeding them with useful information about the progress of their children in order to make development of the child easier and more accessible.
1-1.2--To base program practices upon current knowledge and research in the field of early childhood education, child development, and related disciplines, as well as on particular knowledge of each child. NAEYC, retrieved from http://www.naeyc.org/file/positions/PSETH05.pdf
I believe so much in being current and having so much information on any issue I am to deal with. Working with children is not an exception, so I hope to always read and base my practices on current research works about children so as to enable me give my best to children. Also to get vital tips from families about a child that would help me in working with the child.
1-1.5--To create and maintain safe and healthy settings that foster children's social, emotional, cognitive, and physical development and that respect their dignity and their contributions.NAEYC
The wholesome development of a child is paramont to me as an early childhood professional, hence, I will do my best possible to make sure I achieve this by creating a conducive physical environment and an healty 'emotional' environment that will make him/her feel secured, learn and grow at the same time.
. To empower families with information and resources so that they are informed consumers of services for their children. DEC, retrieved from http://www.dec-sped.org/
From our studies so far, the importance of family involvement in the complete development of a child cannot be over emphasized. I hope to carry families along by feeding them with useful information about the progress of their children in order to make development of the child easier and more accessible.
Thursday, April 4, 2013
COURSE RESOURCES
Position Statements and Influential Practices
Global Support for Children's Rights and Well-Being
More Resources:
Montessori Ideas and Lessons
www.amonco.org
The Public School Montessorian
www.jola-montessori.com
Books
Rutledge, R. (2007). The Playskool Guide to the Toddler years. Illinois:Sourcebooks Publishers
Burns, J. (2008). TEACHING YOUR CHILDREN HEALTHY SEXUALITY. Kaduna: Evangel Publishers Ltd
Additional Resources
Center on the Developing Child, Harvard University website
http://developingchild.harvard.edu/index.php/resources/reports_and_working_papers/working_papers/wp2/
Pediatrics
http://pediatrics.aappublications.org/content/118/5/2187.full.pdf+html
The World Bank.
http://web.worldbank.org/WBSITE/EXTERNAL/TOPICS/EXTCY/0,,contentMDK:20246241~menuPK:4697089~pagePK:210058~piPK:210062~theSitePK:396445,00.html
The National Institute for Play.
http://www.nifplay.org/states_play.html
The George Lucas Foundation
http://www.edutopia.org/richard-davidson-sel-brain-video
Podcast: Old-fashioned play builds serious skills. NPR Morning Edition
http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=19212514
Alliance for Childhood.
http://www.allianceforchildhood.org/play_resources
Counsil and the science of early Childhood
http://www.developingchild.net
<iframe width="480" height="270" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/o9fVvsR-CqM?rel=0" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>
APA Style:
http://writingcenter.waldenu.edu/APA.htm
Plagiarism:
http://writingcenter.waldenu.edu/63.htm
Google Scholar:
http://scholar.google.com/
Infomine: Scholarly Internet Resource Collections:
http://infomine.ucr.edu/
Web Article: Kirk, E. E. (1996). Evaluating information found on the Internet. Retrieved June 4, 2011, from http://guides.library.jhu.edu/evaluatinginformation
- NAEYC. (2009). Developmentally appropriate practice in early childhood programs serving children from birth through age 8. http://www.naeyc.org/files/naeyc/file/positions/dap
- NAEYC. (2009). Where we stand on child abuse prevention. http://www.naeyc.org/files/naeyc/file/positions/ChildAbuseStand.pdf
- NAEYC. (2009). Where we stand on school readiness. http://www.naeyc.org/files/naeyc/file/positions/Readiness.pdf
- NAEYC. (2009). Where we stand on responding to linguistic and cultural diversity. http://www.naeyc.org/files/naeyc/file/positions/diversity.pdf
- NAEYC. (2003). Early childhood curriculum, assessment, and program evaluation: Building an effective, accountable system in programs for children birth through age 8. http://www.naeyc.org/files/naeyc/file/positions/pscape.pdf
- NAEYC. (2009, April). Early childhood inclusion: A summary. http://www.naeyc.org/files/naeyc/file/positions/DEC_NAEYC_ECSummary_A.pdf
- Zero to Three: National Center for Infants, Toddlers, and Families. (2010). Infant-toddler policy agenda. http://main.zerotothree.org/site/PageServer?pagename=ter_pub_infanttodller
- FPG Child Development Institute. (2006, September). Evidence-based practice empowers early childhood professionals and families. (FPG Snapshot, No. 33) http://www.fpg.unc.edu/~snapshots/snap33.pdf
The following article can be found in the Walden University Library databases.
- Turnbull, A., Zuna, N., Hong, J. Y., Hu, X., Kyzar, K., Obremski, S., et al. (2010). Knowledge-to-action guides. Teaching Exceptional Children, 42(3), 42-53.
Use the Academic Search Complete database, and search using the article's title.
Global Support for Children's Rights and Well-Being
- Article: UNICEF (n.d.). Fact sheet: A summary of the rights under the Convention on the Rights of the Child. http://www.unicef.org/crc/files/Rights_overview.pdf
- Websites:
- World Forum Foundation
http://worldforumfoundation.org/wf/wp/about-us
- World Organization for Early Childhood Education
http://www.omep-usnc.org/
- Association for Childhood Education International
http://acei.org/
- National Association for the Education of Young Children
http://www.naeyc.org/
- The Division for Early Childhood
http://www.dec-sped.org/
- Zero to Three: National Center for Infants, Toddlers, and Families
http://www.zerotothree.org/
- WESTED
http://www.wested.org/cs/we/print/docs/we/home.htm
- Harvard Education Letter
http://www.hepg.org/hel/topic/85
- FPG Child Development Institute
http://www.fpg.unc.edu/
- Administration for Children and Families Headstart's National Research Conference
http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/opre/hsrc/
- HighScope
http://www.highscope.org/
- Children's Defense Fund
http://www.childrensdefense.org/
- Center for Child Care Workforce
http://www.ccw.org/
- Council for Exceptional Children
http://www.cec.sped.org//AM/Template.cfm?Section=Home
- Institute for Women's Policy Research
http://www.iwpr.org/
- National Center for Research on Early Childhood Education
http://www.ncrece.org/wordpress/
- National Child Care Association
http://www.nccanet.org/
- National Institute for Early Education Research
http://nieer.org/
- Pre[K]Now
http://www.pewstates.org/projects/pre-k-now-328067
- Voices for America's Children
http://www.voices.org/
- The Erikson Institute
http://www.erikson.edu/
- YC Young Children
- Childhood
- Journal of Child & Family Studies
- Child Study Journal
- Multicultural Education
- Early Childhood Education Journal
- Journal of Early Childhood Research
- International Journal of Early Childhood
- Early Childhood Research Quarterly
- Developmental Psychology
- Social Studies
- Maternal & Child Health Journal
- International Journal of Early Years Education
Montessori Ideas and Lessons
www.amonco.org
The Public School Montessorian
www.jola-montessori.com
Books
Rutledge, R. (2007). The Playskool Guide to the Toddler years. Illinois:Sourcebooks Publishers
Burns, J. (2008). TEACHING YOUR CHILDREN HEALTHY SEXUALITY. Kaduna: Evangel Publishers Ltd
Additional Resources
Center on the Developing Child, Harvard University website
http://developingchild.harvard.edu/index.php/resources/reports_and_working_papers/working_papers/wp2/
Pediatrics
http://pediatrics.aappublications.org/content/118/5/2187.full.pdf+html
The World Bank.
http://web.worldbank.org/WBSITE/EXTERNAL/TOPICS/EXTCY/0,,contentMDK:20246241~menuPK:4697089~pagePK:210058~piPK:210062~theSitePK:396445,00.html
The National Institute for Play.
http://www.nifplay.org/states_play.html
The George Lucas Foundation
http://www.edutopia.org/richard-davidson-sel-brain-video
Podcast: Old-fashioned play builds serious skills. NPR Morning Edition
http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=19212514
Alliance for Childhood.
http://www.allianceforchildhood.org/play_resources
Counsil and the science of early Childhood
http://www.developingchild.net
<iframe width="480" height="270" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/o9fVvsR-CqM?rel=0" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>
http://writingcenter.waldenu.edu/APA.htm
http://writingcenter.waldenu.edu/63.htm
http://scholar.google.com/
http://infomine.ucr.edu/
Thursday, March 28, 2013
Words of Inspiration and Motivation
Feeding is one of the most important activities in any Infant/Toddler program. An activity that ideally enhances attachment, increases feelings of security and provides warmth, acceptance and an overall sense of well-being in the infant.Janet Gonzalez-Mena
The moment I decided to follow instaed of lead, I discovered the joys of becoming part of a small child's world.
Janet Gonzalez-Mena
The development of healthy self-esteem in a child allows her to confront her mistakes without taking apart her positive feelings about herself...
.
T. Berry Brazelton, M.D
When a child struggles with you over food, you won't win. The more you struggle, the more he'll hate whatever you're trying to shovel into him. T. Berry Brazelton's Advice on Childhood Nutrition.
We as Professionals in Early Childhood Field have an opportunity to shape the child's life for the better. Sandy Escobibo
The preschool years are the first most critical, fundamental period when infants are trying to know who they are....Children are still trying to figure out all of their different identities, and they are trying to figure out how other people are and still being daily bombarded by both negative and positive messages about who they are. Louise Derman-Sparks
Families need support. Parents need Support. With resources and access to resources, parents can thrive. Leticia Lara LCSW
I learn from my kids. It's not all about you, you've got to take your ego out and learn what is best for the child. Renatta Cooper
Friday, March 22, 2013
Personal Childhood Web
I don't think I can ever forget the impact of these individuals in my life:
My mum
My mum,dad&brother who taught me spelling and physics
Naturally, most mums are inclined to their children, mine was not exceptional. She is a discplinerian to the core, she belived so much in correcting a child by spanking and then dialogue. As a child, my mum would first discipline me then let me know what I did later. Thanks to civilization that helped in reforming her disciplinay atittude. In the aspect of having a good character and acceptable behaviour, my mum was there for me. I acknowledge her for my good up-bringing. Several times I felt special by my mum's comments about my physique, intelligence and her future wishes for me. My mum has got a strong spirit or drive to do things--This I'm working on achieving.
My dad
He always made me feel special. He understood the impact and methods of discipline more than my mum did. He was always patient with me and allowed me make decisions on my own. He made sure I attended one of the best schools then. My dad's approach to discipline gave me an aura of confidence, he made himself approachable that I would rather discuss issues with him than with anybody else.
My Siblings
My big sis
It was such a great fun growing up in a family of six(one is of a blessed memory now). We shared rooms together,I attended same school with one or two of them, played together and understood each other. Though there was sibling rivalry, we were still in support of each other. My late sis influenced so much my undestanding and interest in Chemistry, my brother on the other hand was my spelling teacher. He taught me some aspect of mathematics. This led to my studying sciences later in seondary school--My siblings influenced my choice of studies then. My baby brother was my companion and play mate. We did everything together, still was always in disagreement. My siblings gave me a sense of togetherness.
Uncle Haruna
Uncle Haruna is a distant uncle though. He was always providing me with my toys--This made me like him then. A lesson here is that a support sysytem must necessarily not be someone close to you. With the toys then, I felt so special whenever I was with my friends cos I always had one of the best toys.
Bisi
Bisi was a childhood friend who was smater than I was. I always wanted to be like her, and felt I could achieve this by always being close to her. We played together and loved each other. As a child, she made me to want to be the best in all I did. I tried to learn how to be organized from her.
My baby brother
My mum
My mum,dad&brother who taught me spelling and physicsMy dad
He always made me feel special. He understood the impact and methods of discipline more than my mum did. He was always patient with me and allowed me make decisions on my own. He made sure I attended one of the best schools then. My dad's approach to discipline gave me an aura of confidence, he made himself approachable that I would rather discuss issues with him than with anybody else.
My Siblings
My big sisUncle Haruna
Uncle Haruna is a distant uncle though. He was always providing me with my toys--This made me like him then. A lesson here is that a support sysytem must necessarily not be someone close to you. With the toys then, I felt so special whenever I was with my friends cos I always had one of the best toys.
Bisi
Bisi was a childhood friend who was smater than I was. I always wanted to be like her, and felt I could achieve this by always being close to her. We played together and loved each other. As a child, she made me to want to be the best in all I did. I tried to learn how to be organized from her.
Thursday, March 21, 2013
My Favourite Children Quote
A hundred years from now, it will not matter what my bank account was; the sort of house I lived in, or the kind of car I drove, But the world may be different because I was important in the life of a child. Forest E. Witcraft.
This quote fuels my passion daily because when I think of the future then I know I must make an immeasurable impact in the life of a child today.
This quote fuels my passion daily because when I think of the future then I know I must make an immeasurable impact in the life of a child today.
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| My little daughter's painting |
She did this in school when they were asked to give supporting hands by making donations to some needy children. The finger prints represent 'helping hands'. So many parts make up a big tree like we know.
I'm choosing this because it reminds me of how much children need to get emotional, psychological and physical support from those around them in order to make a 'big and successful' future
Thursday, March 7, 2013
My first blog
Hi All,
Just still trying out something new here. Hope to improve and build on this knowledge in the nearest future
Just still trying out something new here. Hope to improve and build on this knowledge in the nearest future
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