Final Reflections

While I always had an appreciation for the role that relationships play in the field of early childhood, as a result of this program, I feel that I have a deeper understanding of just how critical relationships can be.  Relationships serve as the foundation for all work done in the early childhood field.  “Young children experience their world as an environment of relationships, and these relationships affect virtually all aspects of their development” (National Scientific Council on the Developing Child, 2004, p. 1).  Gopnick also pointed out that the quality of early relationships impacts both the short-term and long-term relationships that children form with others (Laureate Education, Inc., 2011). 

A second deeply felt learning is related to diversity, equity, and social justice. The resources and information presented throughout the courses for this program have caused me to be more aware of the impact of culture and has inspired me to incorporate the principles of the anti bias curriculum into my daily practice and into how I think about diversity, culture, and differences. As Derman-Sparks and Olsen Edwards (2010) pointed out “Early childhood educators have deep faith in the principle that all people deserve the opportunities and resources to fulfill their complete humanity.   Moreover, we have the unique role of making this principle real in promoting all children’s chances to thrive and succeed in school, work and life” (p. 1). 

One of the most valuable things that I learned as a result of this course of study I have a deeper understanding of the role that a program’s vision and mission should play.  While the organizations that I have worked for had clear and inspiring visions and mission statements, there was little connection between them and daily operations, planning, and budgeting.   This new realization has completely changed how I approach program decisions and how I think about the early childhood program where I work.

One long-term goal that I set for myself is to actually implementing the goals that I created for the Capstone project at the center where I work.  As Keyer pointed out, it is important to not only continue to grow and learn about those who we are working with, but to also continue to learn about ourselves (Laureate Education, Inc., 2011).  . This continuous cycle of learning and reflecting is a necessary component of high-quality early childhood programming.  While my formal education is coming to an end, another long-term goal that I have set for myself is to continue to read and stay abreast of the latest research and information related to early childhood and to continue to reflect on my own beliefs, values, and practice. One of the greatest benefits of this program is that it exposed me to a wide variety of resources and websites that I was not aware of that will help me achieve this goal. 

In addition to a deeper appreciation for the role of relationships, this class demonstrated the power of a community of practice. The discussion posts and blogs served as a support system and an effective method for encouraging me to consider other perspective and viewpoints and to learn from the vast and varied experiences of colleagues and instructors.  I wish each of you the best of luck in whatever you do.  The ideas and perspectives that you shared have made me a more knowledgeable and reflective early childhood professional. One of the greatest strengths of this online program is that I have had the chance to meet, work with, and interact with people from across the country. This offered me the chance to benefit from the great depth of knowledge and the diverse experiences that each of you brings.

Thank you Dr. Darragh Ernst for your thoughtful comments and for making this class enjoyable. 

Please feel free to contact me- 

Geralyn sosinski

Kansas City, Kansas

tsosinski@sbcglobal.net

Reference

Derman-Sparks, L., & Olsen Edwards, J. (2010). Anti-bias education for young children and ourselves. Washington, DC:  National Association for the Education of Young Children.

Laureate Education, Inc. (Producer). (2011). Merging Vision, Passion, and Practice [Course Media]. Retrieved from http://mym.cdn.laureate-media.com/2dett4d/Walden/EDUC/6990/01/mm/ec_pres/index.html

National Scientific Council on the Developing Child. (2004). Young children develop in an environment of relationships. Working Paper No. 1. Retrieved from http://www.developingchild.net

Wherever you go, go with all your heart.

                                   ~Confucius