What I Have Learned EDUC 6357

• I hope to create an environment where all children and their families feel welcome and feel as if they are a necessary part of our learning environment.
• I hope that the early childhood community works to develop curriculum that works to support and involve families in the lives of their young children now and as they grow. 

I want to take this time to thank my fellow classmates. It has been a tiring journey of self exploration and discovery. I pray that we all have come out of this course braver and stronger. 

We are the World

Children Say the Darndest Things

The honesty of a child can show the world as it is. After talking with a friend about her daughters experience with a handicapped child who walked with braces it became evident that parents need to address differences among people with their children at a young age. After some research I found a wonderful resource through Baby Center: Expert Advice. They suggest:

• Address your child's curiosity
• Answer questions matter of factly
• Watch your words
• Emphasize what's the same
• Take advantage of teaching moments
• Don't allow jokes or bullying

The expert advice is wonderful on this website and helps parents prepare for those awkward conversations that come from being unprepared. When we show our children that these topics make us uncomfortable they then carry that fear or insecurity with them.