Time Well Spent

As my time at Walden University comes to a close, it is very bittersweet.  I have learned so much throughout the past two years.  I never realized just how passionate I was about young children and working with their families.  One thing that this program has taught me is that I want to do more than just teach in a classroom.  I started this program thinking I was wanted to teach Pre-K one day.  I am not sure so that is the case anymore.  I have realized just how far this degree can take me and I am not sure that I want to settle as just a classroom teacher when I can do so much more good for children.  Another thing that I learned is anyone can stand up and be an advocate for social change.  I never did see myself as being a voice for children, but I do now.  I know that I have the knowledge to fight for social change and I know that I can do it.  I can make a difference.  The third thing that this program has taught me is just how much I love working with children and families.  Every job will come with problems, but seeing these children and getting to know their families on a personal basis is a wonderful experience.  I feel like I really touch their lives and make a difference.  That is something that I want to always continue doing.  Anyone can make the difference in the life of a child.  Just make sure that it's a positive difference.

The long term goal that I have is to never give up on my dream of one day owning my own daycare.  I know this is something that will not happen in the immediate future, but I hope to one day be able to open my own center.  Throughout this course, I became passionate about opening up a daycare and that dream has stuck with me for the past year.  My goal is to make it a reality within the next three years.

I want to thank Dr. Dartt for all the feedback and challenging me to think outside of the box on several issues.  Her wisdom made me think and she taught me so much.  I just want to say thanks for all of your help during this course.

I want to thank all of my classmates for all of their help throughout this course and the program.  It has been really fun getting to know each of you and I hope all of you achieve your dreams and goals.  I have learned so much from each of you throughout our discussions and blogs.  Each of you have helped me along the way by providing insight into different issues and made me think in different ways.  I have valued each of your opinions and will take that with me throughout my future.  Thank you to each of you and good luck in your futures.  We did it!  We made it through our Master's program!

Jobs/Roles in the ECE Community: Internationally

One of the International organizations that I looked up and did some research on was the Academy for Educational Development.  This organization "envisions a world in which all individuals and communities have the opportunity to reach their highest potential" (Academy for Educational Development, 2011).  They partner with all types of organizations to create "innovation, mutual respect, passion, accountability, commitment to excellence, and teamwork" (Academy for Educational Development, 2011).  This organization appealed to me because "Our staff includes experts in health, education, nutrition, environment, economic development, civil society, gender equality, youth, research and technology--creating a unique mix of capabilities to address today's interrelated development challenges.  FHI 360 serves more than 60 countries and all U.S. states and territories" (Academy for Educational Development, 2011).  I think it is great that they serve so many different countries and include experts from various fields.  This is why this organization appealed to me and I would love to have them on my community of practice.  

Another organization that I would love to add to my community of practice and that appealed to me is United Nations Children's Fund.  I love all the work that they do for children and trying to get them an education.  "We advocate for measures to give children the best start in life, because proper care at the youngest age forms the strongest foundation for a person's future" (United Nations Children's fund (UNICEF), n.d).  This organization really inspired me because of all the good work they do for children.  

Another International organization that I would love to partner with is Save the Children.  "Save the Children gives children in the United States and around the world what every child deserves--a healthy start, the opportunity to learn and protection from harm, especially when disaster strikes.  We advocate and achieve lasting change for millions of children.  We save children's lives" (Save the Children, 2011).  This really inspired me and fueled my passion.  Children deserve a healthy start and to feel safe and that is what this organization is all about.  This would be a good organization to add to my community of practice because they advocate for all children and try to help them and give them a good start in life.  

One job that I found through the Academy for Educational Development is an opportunity for a Director.  It is based in New York so I would have to relocate.  In order to apply for this job, one would need the skills and knowledge of design and management of programs, have supervision and leadership skills, strong communication skills, and understand and respect cultural differences.  One must hold a Bachelor's Degree and have 8 years experience in management.  I believe this would be a fun job to have because you will be working with so many different expects in this field and partnering with other countries for a good cause.  

Another job that I saw and was interested in is a Foster Care Counselor.  One must provide services to the entire family.  Counselors must try and build trust with the youth and their family.  To apply, you must have a Master's Degree, experience with foster care, and good communication skills.  I believe this would be a good job to have because you are working to help a child and their family.  You advocate for what is best for the child.  You are making a difference in the life of a child and their family.  I know that will be rewarding.

References

Academy for Educational Development. (2011). Retrieved from http://www.aed.org/en/index.htm

Save the Children. (2011). Retrieved from http://www.savethechildren.org/site/c.8rKLIXMGIpI4E/b.6115947/k.8D6E/Official_Site.htm

United Nations Education, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). (2011). Retrieved from http://www.unesco.org/new/en/unesco/about-us/who-we-are/introducing-unesco/

Jobs/Roles in the ECE Community: National/Federal Level

There are many different types of federal and national organizations that help families, teachers, and caregivers with children born with autism.  Autism is something that affects many families.  After doing extensive research on this topic, I found a national organization called Autism Society.  This organization has information for families, individuals, professionals, and advocates.  Their website is filled with information.  This organization is the nation's leading grassroots autism organization and "hosts the most comprehensive national conference on autism, attended by 2,000 people each year" (Autism Society, 2014).  They currently have no vacant positions, but this is something that I would be interesting in doing or volunteering with.  One would have to have knowledge in the field of autism and working with children with disabilities.  "The Autism Society accomplishes its ongoing mission through close collaboration with a successful network of affiliates, members and supporters" (Autism Society, 2014).  

Another federal organization that I think would be very good is called Milestones Autism Organization.  "Milestones Autism Resources helps individuals with autism reach their unique potential. We focus on educating and coaching for family members and professionals in evidence-based practical strategies. Our conferences, workshops, professional development, referral calls and online resources connect the autism community with vital information, and each other" (Milestones Autism Organization, 2014).  This would be a great resource to add to my community of practice since they offer training for professionals.  This would include training for teachers.  They offer summer camps for children.  I think it would be a great opportunity to work with their summer program.  They also offer volunteer opportunities for teenagers with autism to work for them through their intern program.  They also offer an internship for college and graduate students. 
"Duration and work assignments are based on the needs of the student and agency. Students majoring in social work, communications, special education, psychology or nonprofit management are encouraged to apply. Milestones can provide supervision for social work students needing field hours for completion of their academic program" (Milestones Autism Organization, 2014).

 Another organization that I came across is the Dan Marino Foundation.  This organization is committed to making the lives of those who suffer with autism better.  They are located in South Florida and have impacted the community through "therapies, research, education, and employment, and raised more than $47 million to create unique initiatives in the community. Among these "first-of-their-kind" initiatives were the Miami Children's Hospital Dan Marino Center, Childnett.tv, the Marino Autism Research Institute, Marino Adapted Aquatics, Summer STEPS Employment Programs, and now, Marino Campus, opening Fall 2014" (Dan Marino Foundation, 2014).  They offer a jobs development program and a summer camp.  They currently have no job opportunities posted on their website, but one can volunteer to help with the summer camp.  To apply for this, one must work well with children with special needs, be patient, and work well with others. 

References

Autism Society.  (2014).  Improving the Lives of All Affected by Autism.  Retrieved from http://www.autism-society.org/

Dan Marion Foundation.  (2014).  Opening Doors.  Retrieved from http://www.danmarinofoundation.org/portal/home

Milestones Autism Organization.  (2014).  Education, Coaching, Connecting.  Retrieved from http://milestones.org/

Exploring Roles in ECE Community: Local & State Levels

There are so many opportunities to join organizations in your state and local community or surrounding communities.  Until beginning to research organizations, I had no idea that there were so many different types for children, families, and educators.  I am excited about all of the information that I have found.

One organization that I feel very passionately about it and would like to join is our local RIP program.  I have a personal connection to this program because I almost used it with my own son.  My son, at three-years-old, was a handful and had some behavior issues.  My husband and I could not figure out what was going on with him.  We took for a visit to the RIP program on a recommendation from my son's doctor.  I loved how everything was set up and the way children and families were treated.  The RIP coordinator felt my son did not need the RIP program and he was diagnosed a few weeks later with having sensory processing disorder. The RIP program sent him to an occupational therapist and now, a year and a half later, my son is doing so much better.  I am very grateful for the help that I received.  I think this organization is wonderful and I believe that it helps families and children.  This is one reason that I chose them.

Another organization that appeals to me is Tennessee Voices for Children.  This organization was formed to promote children's health and education services.  About 51% of their families have children with special needs.  Most of their staff have children with special needs.  This appealed to me because part of my capstone project deals with children with special needs.  I think this group is a great advocate for children and their families.  I am so glad that I have found this organization because I want to advocate for children and their families and this is a great community of practice to be involved with.  T

The last organization that I want to have as a community of practice is TEIS:  TN Early Intervention Systems.  This program is like a child find for children with special needs from ages birth through age 2 that have delays.  This organization helps the child and the families to promote their child's development.  These children get the services that they need to prepare them and help them develop the skills needed for success.  I believe that when children are given an early start, it will benefit them.  There are many good things that come out of TEIS.  

There is a position available with Tennessee Voices for Children that is located in Nashville.  It caught my attention and interest, however, I have not qualified for the position.  It is for Director of Development.  The skills and experience that I would need for this position are having a Bachelor's Degree in Marketing, Highly knowledgeable and experienced in fundraising and non-profit marketing, Extensive and successful fundraising and capital campaign experience, Track record of successful grant writing for both government and private funds, and Excellent collaboration, customer service and leadership skills.  

Another job opportunity that interests me is teaching Pre-K in my community.  I have always been passionate about teaching young children.  My son is in Pre-K and I think it is such a wonderful program and I believe in it.  I already have a bachelor's degree in teaching Kindergarten-6th grade, so when I finish this master's program, I will go and take my Praxis exam in early childhood education.  I already have a teaching license in the state of TN, so if I pass the praxis exam in early childhood education, I will be able to get that endorsement on my license and will be able to teach Pre-K.

Becoming a director or owner of a daycare center is another job opportunity that I am very interested in.  The skills I would need to do this is making sure that I have good communication skills, the knowledge about educating children and working with families, budgeting and management skills, advocating for these children, and managing staff and personnel.  

Week 8 Goodbyes

I would like to take this time to say thank you to everyone in my group that has supported me, encouraged me, challenged me, and helped me throughout this course and previous courses.  It has been really fun getting to know each of you and I have enjoyed all of our conversations and discussions.  I wish each of you luck in your future courses and with your future career choices.  Thank you to all of my group members:  Bethany, Melanie, Sha-Kevia, Shawn, MarieFrance, Tinka, and Victoria.  Good luck to each of you.

Adjourning Groups

I believe adjourning from a group is difficult when close bonds are formed.  Working closely together in a group can lead to personal relationships and bonding.  It can be difficult to say good-bye.  I believe the hardest group to leave was when I was getting my bachelor's degree.  I had the same people in all of my classes for 2 years.  We always formed the same groups and became very close.  It was hard saying goodbye because we had all became very good friends and teammates.  I had shared so much with these group members over the past two years.  We had learned and grown together.

It has been several years now and we are all still friends and communicate with each other through facebook.  We have a special bond with each other that did not end when our classes and group projects ended.  I am glad that we still talk and are friends.

Communication Week 5

At the Head Start where I work we lost funding and, because of this, we lost a classroom.  We returned back to work this week and I had everything from my classroom, plus the classroom furniture and materials from the room we lost, all shoved into my small room.  My assistant and I have been going through the things and figuring out what we want and what do not want.  Nobody has came to get the extra furniture from our room and we have had a difficult time working around it.  One can barely walk because of all the extra stuff. My assistant is a very emotional person and this task has really gotten to her this week.  We have had several disagreements this week on our classroom.  I am the type of person that if I have not used something in a few months chances are I won't use it and it just needs to go.  She is a "pack rat" and does not want to throw anything away.   This has caused some disagreements between us.  

I actually used some of the strategies that I have learned from this course with her this week in order for us to have better communication and less disagreements.  One of the strategies that I used was compromise.  I listened to her voice her opinions about why she wanted to keep certain things.  Then I explained why I thought we should get rid of it.  Then I suggested that we compromise.  We would keep it, if we could find a place for it, but if we did not find a use for it this year then we would get rid of it for next year.  She agreed.  Another strategy that I used with my assistant was empathetic listening.  I have learned that with her, you need to be a good listener.  A lot of the times she just needs someone to listen to her and she needs to feel wanted and important.  By using these two strategies, I was able to resolve our conflict.  

My co-worker and I had a discussion on conflict communication and becoming a NVC.  She told me that she tries to listen to parents or others whenever there is a conflict and tries to understand where they are coming from before voicing her opinion.  She said she just tries to take each conflict that comes up and handle it to the best of her ability and learn from it.

Communication Week 4

Thinking about how I evaluated myself compared to how my husband and co-worker evaluated me, I wasn't really surprised too much by the differences in results.  I try to act the same around my family and co-workers.  I think the one thing that did surprise me the most was how my scores varied so much on the anxiety test.  I hate public speaking.  Even if it is just speaking out in front of my co-workers when a new person is around, I hate it.  I get all nervous and feel sick.  I avoid public speaking at all cost.  I scored myself at a 73, which falls into the "high" category.  When reading the description of this category, I feel it describes me perfectly.  My husband scored me a 59, which put me into the "moderate" category.  I laughed when I saw that because I felt that he would have scored me closer to my own higher score.  My co-worker scored me at a 50, which is also in the "moderate" category.  I was not as surprised by her score because she knows I hate public speaking, but she has seen me do it many times with work functions.

This activity gave me some insights into how others perceive my communication skills.  One insight that I learned about myself is that I am more people-oriented.  I was placed into this group by myself, my husband, and my co-worker.  I believe this will help me when dealing with the families that I serve.  It will help me to build relationships with people in my personal and professional life.

Another insight about communication that I gained from this activity is that I need to relax more when it comes to communication.  I have high anxiety, although others may not see it.  I need to have more confidence in myself and learn to relax.  This will be useful in my professional life because it will help me to communicate better with others and not be worried or stressed over the anxiety that I feel.

Another insight that I have gained about communication is the knowledge that people judge you based on what you allow them to see.  Even though I feel high anxiety when it comes to public speaking, I try not to allow others to see how nervous it makes me.  I hide it and that is why they did not score me as having high anxiety.  We need to be more honest with others and let them see our "true self"  This is something that I plan to work on in both my personal and professional life.

Communication and Culture

I have never really thought about the different ways that I communicate with different groups of people until this course.  I find that I do tend to communicate differently depending on the group that I am with.  For example, with my close friends and family I find myself more relaxed and laid-back and more honest.  I tend to say or do things that I wouldn't do with other groups.  With my co-workers I tend to be a bit more reserved and keep my opinions to myself in order to avoid conflicts.  With the parents of my students, I always find myself acting and speaking more professional.

There are some strategies that I can use to help me communicate better with these groups of people.  We need to be aware of cultural differences when communicating with our students and their family.  One strategy that we can use to help us with cultural differences is by taking the time to learn about the family's culture and applying the platinum rule.

Another strategy one can use is to be mindful .  This means "to be aware of your behavior and the behavior of other" (O'Hair, D., & Wiemann, M., 2012, p. 88).  By being mindful, it can give you ideas of positive ways you might react to different situations that happen without offending someone.

The third strategy that will help you to become a better communicator with different groups of people is to practice your communication skills.  Some ways to practice can include doing the right thing, being empathic, listening effectively, and thinking before you speak or act (O'Hair, D., & Wiemann, M., 2012, P. 92). 

References

O'Hair, D., & Wiemann, M. (2012). Real communication: An introduction. New York: Bedford/St. Martin's.

TV Show Communication

This week I watched an episode of the classic TV hit, FRIENDS.  I never did watch that show when it was on television so I watched it online.  First, I watched it with the sound turned off.  From watching the nonverbal communication, I would think that the group of people are friends.  They seem to be celebrating a baby.  Banners are being hung up by the group and they are smiling and speaking with each other.  They use direct eye contact and seem to listen when someone else is speaking.  They smile at a lot at each other and even hug each other.  A woman and man come inside the room with an infant.  Everyone hugs them and wants to hold the baby.  It seems like they are close friends, maybe even family.  The men leave the apartment and the girls smile at the baby, asleep.  The baby wakes up and the girls try to rock the baby back to sleep but the baby keeps screaming.  It appears that after awhile, the girls are very frustrated and tired because the infant continues to cry.  Meanwhile, the man goes into a shop to get coffee and runs into another man.  From their expressions, they are not friends.  The father of the baby tries to ignore the other man, but he speaks and they exchange words.  The father tries to hit the other man but he dodges and the man hits a pole.  I do not think they are friends at all.  However, the man takes the injured one to the hospital and fills out his paperwork.

I watched the same FRIENDS episode with the sound turned on.  I learned just how funny this show was and what made it so poplar.  Being able to listen as the characters communicated verbally with each other was wonderful.  Their nonverbal expressions matched their verbal comments.  The plot of this show was that Rachel just had a baby and was trying to get the baby back to sleep.  The baby would not stop crying.  Her friends, Monica and Phoebe, try to help her but the baby girl keeps crying.  Finally, Monica is the only one that is able to get baby Emma to sleep.  Ross and Joey are friends, but they are mad at each other because Joey has a crush on Rachel.  Joey tells Ross to hit him because it will make him feel better.  When Ross goes to hit him, Joey ducks and Ross his the pole instead.  Joey takes him to the hospital. 

I felt that watching the show without the sound left me at a disadvantage.  I did not know the characters and I did not understand the plot at all.  I could tell that the girls were having a hard time getting the baby to sleep and they looked frustrated and wore out.  This mirrored the actual plot of their storyline.  When it came to the guys, I had the wrong assumption about them.  Their nonverbal attitude implied that they were not friends.  They tried to avoid each other, and went as far as hitting each other.  However, watching this with the sound explained what was going on with the two of them.  I was wrong about their relationship with each other.

I think watching a show that I was familiar with would have been a lot easier.  I would know the characters and their personalities so I could tell what their relationship is like and read their nonverbal communication cues a lot easier.  I learned that by observing only the nonverbal communication can be deceiving.  We make assumptions based on what we believe is happening and it may not be the case at all.  We have to take all the communication skills and be active listeners.  This experience was very interesting to do.

References
Crane, D. & Kauffman, M.  (2002).  FRIENDS:  The One Where Emma Cries.  Bright/Kauffman/Crane Productions