[kate]

1.2 2.2 3.1 4.4 5.2 6.4 7.3 8.2

My point of view is based on my family experiences, my learning and education, and what I see and hear in the media.

When peoples point of views differ there can often be tension and one person might shut down or might become even more vocal. I believe peoples points of view can change over time based on their own experiences or things they might see or hear over and over again. If a person has a desire to change then they will. If they have no desire to change then that can be respected and others can learn from that too.

[kate]

With children as young as 3-6 months beginning to notice visual aspects of racial differences and children 2.5-3 years of age starting to understand social ideas, feelings, and stereotypes about others and themselves we as educators play a crucial role. As stated in WAC section 85 we should communicate with the families in our classroom/school to learn more about their cultures and other relevant information. I would in the beginning of the year ask families if they would like to tell us about any of their cultural practices or diverse backgrounds. Taking that information along with incorporating other cultures and diversity not yet mentioned I would bring dolls, books, pictures, games, and other materials to include in my classroom. If a new child came along I would encourage the family to tell me some background information on them so I can truly make the child feel welcome. That could include reading a book related to that child’s background, or singing a song in their native language, or putting together a craft activity incorporating items from that child’s background. I would also encourage other families in my classroom to learn more about other children’s backgrounds by sharing local events in the community that are related.

[kate]

1. I was surprised at how detailed the WACs were and found it to be super helpful. A great reference guide to look back on when issues arise. At first I was overwhelmed by all of the training requirements but after reading about them I have more of an understanding of why we need them and how beneficial they will be.
2. One detail I was surprised about or didn’t fully understand why was under WAC 110-300-460 it says you keep children’s individual records for minimum of three years but attendance records need to be kept for 5 years? Whats the benefit of those extra two years of attendance records?
3. I think the WACs are so beneficial to having clear assigned guidelines for different levels of working with children. This helps everyone to be on the same page and the continuing education aspect will be so beneficial for the children and early child worker.