[Maria C Vargas]

I remember one time when I worked as an assistant teacher in a child care center. I always smiled and greeted everyone warmly, while the lead teacher in the classroom often had a serious or irritated expression. I noticed that the children naturally came to me more often than they went to her. After reading this chapter, I understand why. A warm, welcoming attitude helps children feel safe, comfortable, and more connected to their teachers.

[alexis maddox]

An example is a child who is read to every day by their parents. This postive early childhood experience can help develope strong language, reading and learning skills.

[Kimberly Gonzales]

When I was in third grade, I had a friend named Samantha. She was the first friend I made since I had moved when I was 8. One day, there was a new kid named Lily. Samantha instantly dropped me as a friend and because best friends with Lily. All the adults in my life basically told me “ This is life”, “You will find other friends”, “Get over it, She really wasn’t your friend “. After that, I became a very lonely isolated kid because I didn’t want to get hurt like that again. I got scared to show my personality, to get close to people, to show emotion towards others. I learned to wall myself off. Now adults in my life, unless they take time to get to know me, dont really invite me anywhere, are scared of me, dont get to know me, write me off. Only a few people have bothered to talk to me or become my friennd.

[Beatrice Vidal Villanueva]

A significant early childhood experience that impacted my future was growing up through difficult challenges that shaped who I am today. I understand how early-life struggles can affect a person’s journey. Those challenges helped me develop compassion, perseverance, and a desire to help others. Today, I am pursuing a career as a teacher and hope to advocate for children, individuals with disabilities, and those who may not always have a voice. My experiences have inspired me to become someone who encourages, supports, and helps others overcome their own challenges.