[Kriselle Bantay]

I would consider the age group I am working with when developing a daily schedule for children. I would recommend planning out meal times then activities for the children. Creating a simple schedule that is easy to follow on the daily could create a sense of security for the children.

[Kriselle Bantay]

Components of a good early learning environment that I think are especially important include a welcoming environment, a caring support system, and an inclusive community.

[Kriselle Bantay]

Some good ways to approach a parent about developmental screening of their child include going into the conversation in a supportive, positive manner. Identify not only weaknesses, but strengths of the child to also highlight what they excel at. It can also be helpful to have proper documentation with evidence to support the conclusion you came to about a developmental screening being recommended. Having access to resources can be great for sharing with parents who may be looking for local resources to reach out to. One can also create a script to work with by conversing with a peer in your profession.

[Kriselle Bantay]

Observation and documentation of a child’s development help early learning providers by helping them recognize what the children they are caring for are struggling with. For example, observing and documenting that a child is struggling with holding a writing utensil can indicate that they may need more assistance in guidance in that area. Without proper observation and documentation, a learning professional could miss out on crucial opportunities to help promote a child’s development.

[Kriselle Bantay]

My thoughts on screen time for children is that it can work well if not done in excess. It is important to give students breaks from screen time as they should also have the opportunity to work without it. There are many educational opportunities that are available thanks to technology nowadays that can make screen time a great tool for the classroom if done in moderation.

[Kriselle Bantay]

I think early learning providers can create a “serve and return” environment in their classrooms by encouraging the interests and educational goals their students may have. They could allow their students to have independent time to grow on their own and time to collaborate with their peers as well. Early learning providers can give their students the opportunity to attempt things on their own and offer them resources or assistance when fit.

[Kriselle Bantay]

I would attempt to convey my understanding that Mrs. Hopkins may be going through certain circumstances that could be preventing her from picking up her child on time. I would also provide my own perspective as a professional and communicate that picking up a child late may be against policies, require a fee, or cause other staff to have to stay later than they should be. Remaining empathetic of her and her child’s circumstances, whatever they may be, and coming to a solution that can accommodate both parties’ schedules would be preferable, but if the issue continues repeating over time it may be necessary to take more strict measures.

[Kriselle Bantay]

1. One of the WACs that addresses diversity and collaborations with families includes WAC 110-300-0160. “An early learning provider must provide culturally and racially diverse learning opportunities. Diverse learning opportunities must be demonstrated by the provider’s curriculum, activities, and materials that represent all children, families, and staff.”

2. Regarding diversity and collaboration, the WACs encourage celebration of the unique qualities that children, family, and staff can have. It is important to provide opportunities for those in an early learning program to come to a better understanding of one another in regard to differences in culture, backgrounds, etc.

[Kriselle Bantay]

1. A multicultural education curriculum should be in place in every school. Agree
2. Families should not be expected to be involved in classroom activities. Disagree
3. All learning programs should accommodate all children with special needs. Agree
4. Some extended family members may confuse children, so they should not have a voice in raising or educating the child. Disagree
5. My curriculum should be based on each individual child’s current interests. Agree
6. Diversity definitely includes race and culture, but doesn’t include age, ability or family make-up. Disagree
7. Media in general delivers fair and accurate accounts of events around the country. Disagree
8. The United States should discontinue relations with countries that engage in human rights violations. Disagree

POINT OF VIEW. The media, my education, my peers, and my political affiliation most definitely affected my answers for the statements above.

Reflect on the ways people respond to one another when points of view differ. Do we ever change our views? What kinds of things influence us to change our perspective? We certainly change our views when responding to others with differing points of views. Maintaining a respectful and educational conversation between two people can allow for both sides to share each others’ perspectives and come to a better understanding. Our perspective can be changed when considering the different unique aspects such as background and culture people can have.

[Kriselle Bantay]

As a professional, I could celebrate the unique characteristics of my imaginary child and their family by developing my own knowledge on the many different forms of family structures and aspects that can make a family unique. One way to welcome this imaginary child and their family could be acknowledging and celebrating their culture. It could be a great opportunity for sharing different cultures among a community. It would be best to create a supportive environment in which all students and their families feel supported even while all being unique in their own ways.

[Kriselle Bantay]

1. What did you discover about the WACs while completing the activity? I discovered that the WACs cover many topics in extensive detail, which are necessary to properly follow along with Washington State licensing rules.
2. Were you surprised by any of the WACs? For the most part, I was not surprised by many of the WACs as they were topics that I expected to see. However, I was surprised to see a section covering pets and animals, but it does make sense to have procedures on how to ensure safety procedures with pets and animals in an early learning program.
3. Can you see how the WACs will influence your day-to-day practice in caring for children? Why or why not? I can most definitely see how WACs will influence my day-to-day practice in caring for children. There are many more WACs than I initially anticipated, but they are all helpful for ensuring the early learning program I am in is following procedures to remain a safe and healthy environment for both children and others involved.