Introduction to Early Childhood Education and Curriculum Planning CE 101 Introduction to Early Childhood Education and Curriculum Planning Unit 5 Seminar

Learning Outcomes After completing this unit, you should be able to: Describe NAEYC and how it benefits early learning programs Discuss the key principles of developmentally appropriate practices Explain the importance of the NAEYC Code of Ethical Conduct.

Introduction This unit will give background on the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC). The mission of NAEYC is "to promote high-quality, developmentally appropriate programs for all children and their families" (Bredekamp & Copple). We'll explore their recommendations for early learning programs. The NAEYC provides information on developmentally appropriate practices, a Code of Ethical Conduct, and best practices in any classroom environment.

Starting Questions What do you believe are the most important rights of children, parents, and teacher? How do you believe teachers of young children should conduct themselves with other teachers, with young children, and with families? What does ‘professionalism’ mean to you?

NAEYC National Association for the Education of Young Children www.naeyc.org The mission of NAEYC is "to promote high-quality, developmentally appropriate programs for all children and their families" (Bredekamp & Copple). How can you ensure that you are doing this in your center?

Overview of NAEYC It: Emphasizes that knowledge of child development is key foundation Supports strong partnerships with families Promotes observation and assessment as integral to quality practice Articulates a code of ethics for ECE practice

The Core Values of NAEYC “Appreciate childhood as a unique stage to be valued in the present, not just as a time of preparation for the future” “Use knowledge of child development as the basis of all work with children” “Appreciate and promote the bonds between children and family” (Bredekamp & Copple, 1997) (Follari, 2007, p 109).

More Core Values of NAEYC “Maintain a view of the child that encompasses the context of their family, culture, and community experience” “Interact with all individuals with respect” “Make every effort to ensure that children and adults reach their full potential” (Bredekamp & Copple, 1997) (Follari, 2007, p 109).

Ethics Guide professionals in respectfully and sensitively handling ethical dilemmas and conflicting situations. Ethical dilemmas are complex situations that are not solved by research or law and for which there is more than one course of action, with potentially negative impact on one party.

COE Basic Guidelines Respect worth and dignity of every child Valuing childhood as a unique time Supporting family bonds Fostering healthy development Validating the impact of individual culture

NAEYC’s Code of Ethical Conduct What is the NAEYC's Code of Ethical Conduct? Why is it important? “Ethical dilemmas: complex situations that are not solved by research or law and for which there is more than one possible course of action taken, there are potentially positive and negative implications” (Follari, 2007, p. 119).

NAEYC Code of Ethical Conduct Statement Guidance for handling ambiguous dilemmas (you’re torn between obligations, beliefs) More than one possible solution Parties involved are in conflict Resolution has positive and negative consequences Obligation to all parties involved

Examples of Ethical Dilemmas What should a teacher do when: A parent demands that the teacher use a different discipline procedure that contradicts the organization’s discipline procedures? The owner of the center gives false information to the licensing authorities? A parent complains about another teacher? A teacher complains about another teacher in front of the children?

Key Considerations Teachers are in position of power and authority over children. You must maintain: Personal integrity —doing the right thing because it’s right, not because someone is watching Professional ethics and responsibility — holding yourself to a high standard, taking responsibility for your actions

Teachers’ Responsibilities Preserve child’s right to safe, healthy setting Empower each individual child Remain current in field research Ensure access to quality programs for all children Above all else, DO NO HARM

Seminar Questions The mission of NAEYC is "to promote high-quality, developmentally appropriate programs for all children and their families" (Bredekamp & Copple). What are your thoughts about this mission statement? How can you make sure that your child care or preschool program follows this mission?

Unit 6 Project Create a Parent Involvement Plan in response to the following scenario: Imagine you are working with one and two year olds in a child care center. The majority of the children’s parents work two jobs and have a difficult time participating in the center's activities. Whenever the center plans an event, your parental involvement is lower than desired. The center has tried to increase parental involvement – through such methods as calling to remind parents and sending home notices – but is not having any luck.

Unit 6 Project Paragraph 1 Paragraph 2 Your first paragraph should be an opening statement (something that will entice readers to want to read more – I suggest rewriting the scenario in your own words for this portion). Paragraph 2 In paragraph two you will identify what the issue is – (why are parents not attending evening or weekend meetings – if you work in the field, share your real life experience, if you do not, share why you suppose parents do not attend)

Unit 6 Project Paragraph 3 Paragraph 4 In paragraph three, you will discuss your beliefs about why parents are not involved in school activities. Remember that paragraphs should be a minimum of 3-5 sentences. Paragraph 4 In paragraph four, you will share a conclusion and offer suggestions to increase parent involvement. Don’t forget to run the spell and grammar check.

Unit 6 Project Paragraph 5 Paragraph 6 In paragraph five, you will create a parent involvement plan for your center. Imagine this piece being included in your employee and parent handbook. Paragraph 6 Your final paragraph should summarize the importance of parental involvement. The rubric is looking to see if you supported your thoughts and words with citations, this would be a great place to add a citation if you have not done so already.

Considerations for Projects Provide a title page and references page Use APA Quick Reference Guide under Course Home Menu of course Use your textbook Use the rubric in the syllabus for a guideline

In-text Citation For example: Meeting the developmental domains is a role of the early childhood professional (Follari, 2011). According to Follari (2011), meeting the developmental domains is a role of the early childhood professional. Follari (2011) stated, “meeting the developmental domains is a role of the early childhood professional” (p. 233).

Weekly Reminders Complete Readings Browse Web Resource Respond to Discussion Questions Interact with Classmates Attend Seminar or complete Seminar option Complete Learning Activities Complete Graded Review E-mail questions, concerns, etc.

The teacher is one who made two ideas grow where only one grew before. Closing thought! The teacher is one who made two ideas grow where only one grew before. - Unknown

Thank you! Thank you for joining me! It has been a pleasure share with you again this evening! If you ever need anything… email me!

References Follari, L. (2010). Foundations and best practices in early childhood education: History, theories, and approaches to learning. Boston: Pearson. Jupiter Images Corporation, (2010). Clipart.com. Retrieved May 10, 2010 from http://www.clipart.com