Inspiration Motivation

My previous educational accomplishment lent to the understanding of early childhood in terms of the stages and critical points at which physical and emotional development occurs and of pervasive issues that compromise wellness.  Keeping my focus in the heart, I address family as the central point from which children evolve and grow.  The ideals and principles presented in the Division of Early Childhood (2000) and the National Association for the Education of Young Children (2005) align with my sentiments for a family oriented method of educating and promoting overall wellness.  The field of Early Childhood is community that engages the laden issues that befall our children and all families, one child and one family at a time.  In psychological terms, this equates to the Rogerian Person Centered Approach I learned through a serendipitous engagement in case management (McLeod, 2019).  Being person centered changes the dynamics of engagement and inclusion, which launches us to use current strengths, knowledge and resources that can effectively and positively allow for growth.  Being person centered, or family centered, allows us the opportunity to be learners. It provides for real focus, and real issues, that may get clouded with a universal blanket.  These principles and ideals help us make better choices, and keep us focused on the collective goal.  I have put myself at the chopping block many times in the desire to communicate researched and evidence based initiatives that can be applied to the everyday, if we just took the time to listen.  Children are the most valuable source of information because we learn to see the world from their limited perspective.  Included in Gremi’s Garden blog (http://blogging-for-good.com), the following ideals and principles are words to live by.

From The Division for Early Childhood. (2000). . http://www.dec-sped.org

Enhancement of Children’s and Families’ Quality of Lives Section III #3

 “We shall recognize and respect the dignity, diversity, and autonomy of the families and children we serve.”

Responsive Family Centered Practices Section III #1

 “We shall demonstrate our respect and appreciation for all families’ beliefs, values, customs, languages, and culture relative to their nurturance and support of their children toward achieving meaningful and relevant priorities and outcomes families’ desire for themselves and their children.”

From NAEYC (2005). https://www.naeyc.org/resources/position-statements/ethical- conduct

Section I Ethical responsibility to children.

I-1.1—To be familiar with the knowledge base of early childhood care and education and to stay informed through continuing education and training.

I-1.3—To recognize and respect the unique qualities, abilities, and potential of each child.

Section II Ethical Responsibility to families

I-2.4—To listen to families, acknowledge and build upon their strengths and competencies, and learn from families as we support them in their task of nurturing children.