Child Development & Guidance
Organizer:
- Organized by
-
-
Can you think of an example of a person who had a significant early childhood experience that impacted them in the future, whether good or bad?
-
Can you think of an example of a person who had a significant early childhood experience that impacted them in the future, whether good or bad?
-
was bitten by a non verbal student, when a student comes to me now for a hug I flinch. its very hard for me now because I really love to be with my students but now I am on guard.
-
Marnie, thank you for sharing your experience. It’s understandable to feel guarded; recognizing this helps you support yourself and your students.
-
-
A child whos mother sat him infront of a tv constantly and didn’t show him caring and interaction herself. That boy grew to have a speech impedimant. He was behind in growth goals and still as a five year old struggles interacting with peers.
-
Great observation, Ronda! Your example highlights the critical role of early interactions in a child’s development.
-
-
I know that most of the children under my care from the past will never forget me, until now they are in high school still reach out and tell their unforgettable moments with me. It will always be the smile, the presence and the support I gave them are the reason I believe have given impact in their lives. I have always been passionate of being a kindergarten teacher and childcare provider. I make sure that everyone is happy under my care. The secret is that show them what you want to see in them. if you are happy they are happy too.
-
Nazarene, your dedication and positive influence are truly inspiring! It’s wonderful to see how meaningful connections last a lifetime. Keep shining!
-
-
I can say for myself when I was in third grade there was a teacher, and I will always remember her name Miss Garcia every time we went into her class she always gave us this big hug. I could feel her love. you made me feel really good and happy because I wasn’t getting that at home. I always look forward to her class and those big hugs. and when I had a kid, I made sure I always hugged him and told him I love him something I never had growing up.
-
Veneza, thank you for sharing your heartfelt experience! Miss Garcia’s love clearly shaped your nurturing approach as a parent.
-
-
I remember a time in elementary school when there was a competition at school to paint a mural for the school and my teacher was encouraging me to try out and I made it.
-
Great example, Angelica! Your teacher’s encouragement clearly fostered your confidence and creativity, shaping your future experiences positively.
-
-
When I was dropping my sister-in-law off at her pre-k after she had been out due some time due to illness it was so nice to see not just her teachers but all of the staff so welcoming and excited to see her back in school. It was so encouraging to see that and to also see her so excited to be back at class.
-
Great observation, Elina! Positive early experiences, like a warm welcome, can significantly impact a child’s emotional well-being and future learning.
-
-
I have seen children who are slow to warm temperament be greeted by loud, agressive staff and ended up cowering away becoming more afraid and unsure if not distant. I watched or listened walking by classrooms when staff say alot of NO NO NOs instead of asking in a different way with open-ended words that bring a child to start turning those wheels and making connections….Like NO NO NO RUNNING in the classroom. The No conetation could be negatively adverse in getting the positive or desired result that we want from kids. We could have easily said, “Johnny, I see your legs are strong and fast today. How do we safely move around our classroom? Can you show me? Or point out a friend that is walking appropriately and say “Martha, I love to see how safely and slowly that you walk in the classroom even though I can see you’re excited to go to free choice.” Leading by example, and modeling the behavior you would appreciate is a great tool as well. Think of it as in terms of having your supervisor in your room just telling you NO NO NO NO all day. Instead of asking you open-ended questions that allow you think and share your reasonings for something you changed in your classroom. So I firmly believe that being an intentional, dedicated staff member will reflect on how we could do things better before a greeting like that and definitely afterwards. Self-reflection is a great tool to use when approaching issues and trying to learn how you could make a difference for the next time with practice learn how to observe children and others with thoughtfulness and mindfulness.
-
Jennifer, your insights highlight the importance of positive reinforcement and mindful communication in fostering a supportive environment for children. Great reflections!
-
-
There was a 4 year old child in another classroom who had a medical condition that affected his appearance. He lacked confidence, he would withdraw, and stay to himself. The teacher in classroom was an excellent teacher but rigid, didn’t adapt her ways to help all children in the way they needed it. The child was becoming more withdrawn. The parents asked to have him transferred to a different class with a teacher who was vibrant, caring and could adapt to his needs. It took many weeks but that child flourished! It was all about the attitude of the teacher! This child is now in middle school and doing very well!
-
Great example, Helene! It highlights the profound impact a compassionate teacher can have on a child’s confidence and growth.
-
-
I look back on my own childhood experiences, specifically in early childhood. I can recall how happy my teachers always looked welcoming me into the classroom. These interactions have helped shape how I present in the classroom now.
-
Great reflection, Kelsey! Your positive experiences highlight the lasting impact of supportive educators on future teaching approaches.
-
-
My boss/cousin had a very traumatic childhood growing up. It built a natural distrust towards most. She has had to work extremely hard to heal from this and put positivity out into the world. For a while, she was experiencing imposter syndrome towards her job due to this. Since she has been working on healing, there have been more positive outcomes surrounding her.
-
Katra, your insight highlights the profound impact of early experiences on personal growth. It’s inspiring to see resilience in overcoming challenges!
-
-
A child that was in my three-year-old class was always very shy and afraid of trying new things. I learned by welcoming him with a simple smile and calm voice on his level helped. During group activities I would encourage him to help me try to figure things out. He eventually not only built-up his self-confidence, but he also became a helper and a leader to others.
-
Great observation, Melissa! Your approach beautifully highlights the impact of nurturing support on a child’s confidence and leadership skills.
-
-
My son is neurodiverse and can display some challenging behaviors. Even though his preschool was aware of his diagnosis, the teachers had no patience for him, and it was obvious (especially to him) that he wasn’t well liked. From that point on whenever he entered a new learning environment there was a period of trust building that needed to occur in order for him to be successful in that class. What he learned from those early experiences was that lack of understanding/education on the part of educators resulted in bias due to his disability.
-
Christina, your insights highlight the crucial role of understanding and empathy in early education. Trust-building is essential for all learners.
-
-
I had a very difficult childhood and as a result I was very shy and timid. Being an elementary student in the early 70’s, I was overlooked by teachers and picked on by students. I have made it my mission to ‘notice’ these students who are remind me of my younger self, I stand up for them, encourage them and make them feel just as important as the others.
-
L, your reflection shows incredible empathy and strength. It’s inspiring to see how your experiences motivate you to support others!
-
-
My daughter had a very difficult freshman year and one teacher took the time to make sure she felt safe and let her know she was wanted. She is still there helping to push her on her rough days and my daughter and I really appreciate the extra time she takes with her.
-
Alicia, it’s heartwarming to see how that teacher’s support positively influenced your daughter’s confidence and resilience!
-
-
I’ve seen a lot of kids get picked last for an activity. I seen their faces and how bad they felt about themselves. To me, that sets the child to feel bad about themselves. A couple solutions could be draw names from a hat or the teacher can chose the teams for the kids. Also, don’t keep putting them in the same groups, mix it up all the time.
-
Great observations, Paula! Your suggestions for promoting inclusivity can significantly boost children’s self-esteem and foster positive experiences.
-
