My primary connections to an international early childhood program was through Jessica Liddell from Alberta, Canada and frequent e-newsletters from Zero to Three, in addition to frequent research on international organizations that help to maintain and support early childhood education around the world and information posted by colleagues on discussions and blogs.
Through discovering new information about the ongoing of international early childhood education, I have learned a lot of how other countries perceive and develop early programs for children and families. Additionally, I've definitely been exposed to the various struggles countries face with providing opportunities for young children and families to receive care as well as the positive pushes forward that countries are pursuing for the young population. I also discovered new information about support organizations that assist early childhood facilities with managing areas such as child development and curriculum standards and funding.
It is truly amazing to take in information about the conditions in other countries and consider how much the United States has to provide and benefit young children and families. Families living in developing nations, that lack structured education, safe and sanitary living conditions, and even fresh water, struggle to provide adequate care for their children, which is why the work of organizations to support early childcare on an international scale, such as Zero to Three. Through my personal communication with Jessica and my research on various organizations, and feel that I can also bring a ton of new ideas and concepts to our facility to enhance our program and the opportunities for our students and families.
One goal for the early childhood field could be to increase the awareness of international issues and continue to provide needed support in developing areas of the world, where education has taken a back seat to other problems, by providing the resources, personnel, and knowledge necessary for the care and education of children, parents, and families.
A big thanks to my professor and colleagues for sharing and supporting new information and experiences these past 8 weeks. I wish everyone the best of luck as you continue through the MCECS program and look forward to sharing again in the future!
Caitlin
Caitlin,
ReplyDeleteI strongly believe that we have all benefited from the international contacts program . It has deepened my knowledge about this profession . I agree with you that international awareness for the field of early childhood education should be expanded and more supports should be provided for the disadvantaged children.I wish all the best in your future courses.