Session 18 Assignment Questions
Please answer your assignments using your own words. Also make sure that if you are getting
information from other sources, the source is properly cited or mentioned (APA format preferred),
ensuring that you are not submitting work written by others. Uncited sources and AI generated
assignments or submissions are considered plagiarism and may result in removal from the course.
Think back to the different sessions you have worked through as part of your Early Childhood Education
Orientation, and the skills and knowledge you have acquired during this course. Reflect on your journey, then
answer the following questions:
Question 1:
Which session had the greatest impact on you? Why?
The session that had the greatest impact on me was the one focused on child development
and behavior guidance. This session deepened my understanding of the various stages of
development and the importance of fostering a positive environment for children. I learned
effective strategies for guiding behavior in a supportive way, emphasizing the significance of
positive reinforcement and clear communication.Understanding how children’s behavior is
influenced by their developmental stages helped me become more empathetic and patient in
my interactions with them. I realized that addressing behavior issues is not just about
correcting actions, but also about understanding the underlying needs and emotions of each
child. This insight will greatly inform my approach as an educator, allowing me to create a
nurturing environment that promotes healthy social and emotional development.
Question 2:
How did the course impact your philosophy or approach to early learning and childcare?
The course significantly shaped my philosophy and approach to early learning and childcare
by reinforcing the idea that each child is unique and develops at their own pace. I learned the
importance of creating a child-centered environment that encourages exploration, creativity,
and autonomy. Understanding the principles of play-based learning emphasized the role of
hands-on experiences in fostering development across various domains—cognitive, social,
emotional, and physical. This perspective has led me to prioritize open-ended activities that
allow children to express themselves and engage with their peers. Additionally, the course
highlighted the significance of building strong relationships with families and the community. I
now see collaboration with parents and caregivers as essential to supporting a child’s growth
and well-being. Overall, I aim to be a responsive and nurturing educator who advocates for
each child's needs, helping them thrive in a safe and inclusive environment.
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Session 18 Assignment Questions
Question 3:
What are you doing differently in your work with children because of this course?
If you’re not currently working in a child care program, how has what you learned impacted how you will approach
your job search?
Since completing the course, I’ve made several changes in my approach to working with children:
Child-Centered Practices: I now prioritize child-centered activities that encourage exploration and
creativity. I focus on providing open-ended materials and opportunities for children to direct their
own learning. Positive Guidance Techniques: I use more positive behavior guidance strategies,
emphasizing clear communication and positive reinforcement rather than punitive measures. This
helps create a more supportive environment where children feel valued and understood.
Emotional Support: I pay closer attention to the social and emotional needs of the children. I’ve
learned to recognize signs of distress or change in behavior, allowing me to respond with
empathy and provide appropriate support. Family Engagement: I actively seek to involve families
in the learning process. I understand the importance of building strong relationships with parents
and caregivers, which enhances the support network for each child. If I were to approach a job
search now, I would focus on finding positions in programs that align with these philosophies,
looking for organizations that value play-based learning and prioritize positive relationships with
children and families. I would also highlight my knowledge and skills gained from the course
during interviews to demonstrate my commitment to quality early childhood education.
