Derman-Sparks and Olson (2010) write that "an environment rich in anti-bias materials invites exploration and discovery and supports children's play and conversations in both emergent and planned activities" (p 43). If I opened up my own Family Child Care Center, I would try to make my program as inviting as possible for all families. At first, I would display family pictures of all the children and their families. Next, I would try to find different types posters and pictures to display a variety of cultures and traditions. In addition, I would establish an open door policy. Families would always invite them to come and join my program. Adriana Castillo (2012) says that "some of the mother's are having a hard time to say goodbye to their children." As a mother with children going to daycare, I can relate to this feeling. Therefore, I believe it is important to allow families some time to say goodbye to their children by allowing them to participate in the program. To make sure the children feel comfortable, I would ask parents to share with me what books or toys their children prefer. Then, I would include those items in my program as well.
Being able to see Mrs. Castillo's (2012) program has shown me how important it is for families to feel included in a program. Her program is inviting and responsive to different family cultures and tradition. It is respectful to them and allows them to feel welcome at all times. This allows the families to be able to go to work but still feel they have a safe place for their children.
Resources:
Derman-Sparks, L., & Olsen Edwards, J. (2010). Anti-bias education for young children and ourselves. Washington, D.C.: National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC).
Walden University (2012). “Welcome to an Anti-Bias Learning Community” Laureate, Inc.
I absolutely agree, I think it is important to have an environment that is comfortable. For children, appearance is important. Children love bright colors and friendly cheerful faces. I know it is important for children to feel welcomed. I think your center would be a great place for children.
ReplyDeleteAnna,
ReplyDeleteHaving parent involvment is a wondeful thing, incorprating a open door policy will be better for everyone. At the early stages of a child's life it is hard for the parents and hard for the children to seperate from one another, if we can be there to support and comfort them I believe those actions will be helpful for the child in the future.