I have been known as an honest, compassionate, forth-right person, 
therefore what better age group than those in early childhood for me to work with? I appreciate and respect a child’s curiosity and need for trust and love. I guess of all my ideas that have changed over the years, this one has remained constant. As I grow in awareness and become more experienced in being with young children, I have learned some of my limitations and how to work around them.

     When I observe and evaluate a child, I watch these four areas; physical, intellectual, social, and emotional development. My own philosophy is based on the importance of the last two. How a child deals with himself/herself and others are my top priorities. I feel that when a child has a good self-concept, then all other areas are easier to work with.

     My own personal style is more on the informal plane. I am not, on the average, a reserved or quiet person, and so enjoy activity and creative play that does not have to be quiet all the time. I believe in small (10 and below children) groups to make them more personal. Many times, I have felt a pride when, during free choice time, every child is working or creating in his/her own way without needing supervision. I value constructive independence.

     I am a process-oriented person, by the book’s definition. As I watch children working on blocks, play-doh, role-playing, I see the importance of doing and experiencing. 

     I believe that a child learns from his senses. So, I try to base my units on activities that will require using them. Montessori materials fascinate me and I am intrigued by the concepts taught by them. 

     Of the theorists, I believe Piaget would be the one that I could follow easiest. I also believe that a child goes through stages, and I like to believe that I am ready to help the child when he/she needs stimulation or advancement. I also feel that a child should know about the world around, and learn a respect for the environment. 

I am not a strict disciplinarian. But, I am a believer of few, simple basic rules and following through. Many children have tested and tried to see if I am what “I say”. This I feel is the foundation of trust.

     I also believe in parental involvement. Much two-way communication is needed for a clear understanding. I firmly feel that problems talked out quickly are always worked out. I have found I need much feedback, and talking on a regular basis also confirms their understanding of what I’m doing.

     Many times when a parent will visit or observe, they comment on things I take for granted. Many letters I send home are informative to parents on what, how, and why a child is behaving or reacting to things. Hopefully, this educates parents into being more aware.

     I also have a need to see my accomplishments. Children at this age grow so quickly and I can always look back over the past year and see the changes and growth in each child. 

     I guess when school is over; I want to know that each child enjoyed their experience with me and that I’ve instilled an excitement for school and a curiosity for the learning and sharing that takes place there. 

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