What I have learned about becoming a professional:
Over the course of the semester, I have learned just how important it is to adhere to the ethical guidelines and standards of this field-we most definitely have ethical responsibilities to the children in our care, their families, our colleagues, and our surrounding communities. Obviously the most important of these is that we provide care and education in a setting that is safe, healthy, nurturing and responsive to each child*. I have also seen the importance of being a continuous and collaborative learner when working with children and that working together as a team with peers, parents and supervisors must happen for the child to truly benefit in a program.
When I used to think of teaching children, I never imagined how important my peers and colleagues would be in developing a nurturing and intentional environment suitable for learning. My fellow practicum students and I have created a bond of some sort and I know that I have gained so much from sharing this experience with them. We have collaborated on some of our activities together, and it has been exciting to see the children make the connection between our activities. It is also extremely useful to reflect on our time with the children together to see where our teaching can go next. That has got to be the best thing that has come out of this entire experience for me and I only hope that this occurs wherever I work because I believe it is a sign that the teachers are fully invested in the children's development and progress.
*NAEYC Code of Ethical Conduct and Statement of Commitment, April 2005
When I used to think of teaching children, I never imagined how important my peers and colleagues would be in developing a nurturing and intentional environment suitable for learning. My fellow practicum students and I have created a bond of some sort and I know that I have gained so much from sharing this experience with them. We have collaborated on some of our activities together, and it has been exciting to see the children make the connection between our activities. It is also extremely useful to reflect on our time with the children together to see where our teaching can go next. That has got to be the best thing that has come out of this entire experience for me and I only hope that this occurs wherever I work because I believe it is a sign that the teachers are fully invested in the children's development and progress.
*NAEYC Code of Ethical Conduct and Statement of Commitment, April 2005