It is always an amazing adventure to explore issues and learning experiences from other countries around the world. The website that I chose to focus on is Early Childhood in Australia.
Early Childhood in Australia Mission Statement is “Early Childhood Australia will advocate to ensure quality, social justice and equity in all issues relating to the education and care of children from birth to eight years” (Early Childhood Australia, 2000). I’m always advocating for the well-being and rights of children. This is a great website that is filled with a wealth of information for educators to ensure the best for their children.
One factor that I was delighted about was how Australia “promotes increased awareness and understanding of the needs of young children and their families” (Early Childhood Australia, 2000). Finding the best rationales to address the needs of children in essential for the educator and it is even more rewarding when the needs of the children are met. An effective practice that was addressed was play. Many people may believe that children should not be allowed to play while in school. “There is a large amount of development and learning taking place from birth to five years of age and play is a foundation for this learning” (Early Childhood Australia, 2000). Children explore and learn as they play. If educators and families observe the behaviors of children as they play and obtain running records, we can learn so much about children. We can create a curriculum that derives around the child’s need in an effort to stimulate growth.
Some noteworthy information that I found to be very helpful and resourceful to educators is “building a classroom community will involve cooperative learning, developmental discipline, understanding others and pro-social action and values.” (Early Childhood Australia,2000). This practice will help promote a healthy classroom. It is important to provide children with an environment that is safe, secure, support risk taking, and sharing of ideas to allow children to explore, grow, and feel comfortable while in the classroom.
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I enjoyed reading your passion-filled posting. Inside the classroom is truly a community just as much as outside of the classroom.
ReplyDeleteI agree with you that the website is full of great resources. Your statement "we can create a curriculum that derives around the child's need in an effort to stimulate growth" sums up my belief and feelings toward play in the early childhood classrooms.
ReplyDeleteGreat post.
Hey Neguiatuia,
ReplyDeleteI feel that your link provided me a wealth of infomration that I can use in my current career. I know that the staff members and families will find this information helpful and informative.