[Rosanne]

Reading the WAC I discovered that it provides a detailed frame for the safety, health and supporting the development of children in a licensed childcare facility. The frame given in this guide doesn’t just give laws for a childcare center and its employees but emphasizes the teaching around early childhood education making it an intentional effort for anyone working with children and their families, being inclusive and engaging with families. These give foundations to ensure that anyone working with children are truly centered around the children and developmentally appropriate.Was I surprised by any of the WACS yes and no, I did not realize how much education and training is needed but also understand why it is. There is a lot of focus around the thought of being an educator, being culturally responsive and inclusive for all children. It is definitely encouraging to see that the standards are designed to protect children while also promoting high quality standards.The WACS have influenced my day-to-day practice and caring for children because it has helped shape my daily routines and the way I enter my place of employment as well as how i set up and operate my daily kitchen duties. I am and have always been intentional about safety, hygiene, supervision and the food and menus I will follow and serve to the children. The WACS also reinforce the importance of working as a team with other staff and maintain he quality care of each child. It also ensures that every decision from how we prepare meals to how we guide behavior is grounded in the best practices that support children’s growth, respect and sense of belonging.