Final Thoughts: Course Reflection

The most significant learning for me during this course has been the ideas and concepts presented in Anti-Bias Education for Young Children and Ourselves by Louise Derman-Sparks & Julie Olsen Edwards. Most importantly, the idea that we, as professionals, must continuously self-reflect on our own beliefs and biases before we can accept others. Reflecting on who you are and where you came from gives you a perspective and an understanding of why you may act or react to situations in everyday life.

Another powerful learning for me was identity development in young children. I had never thought about how my family and the community around me impacted my own identity to shape the person I have become. It is eye-opening to realize how influential my family's rituals, values, and beliefs have been on the decisions I make today. Considering the significant role of family on identity development, the most effective way an educator can support a child is to support the family.  Early childhood educators should provide an environment for children where they can feel safe to be who they are, no matter their ethnic or cultural background.

Family plays such an important role in a child's life. Family life impacts a child's cognitive, social-emotional and physical development. For future studies, I would like to explore ways in which early childhood centers can effectively support and educate parents, while empowering them to advocate for their children. What types of programs have been the most effective in helping parents? What areas do parents feel they need or want the most support for? How can you measure the effectiveness of these programs? Through my research on dual language learners, the importance of providing support to family was a reoccurring theme. What do we know about what works best for families? Lastly, how can we use that information to promote positive relationships between a child's home and school?