NAEYC Ideals:
I-1.3 To recognize and respect the unique qualities, abilities, and potential of each child.
We as professionals must understand that each child is unique in his or her own way and that no two children are just alike. As educators, we must allow each child to showcase their "priceless" qualities and praise them for what they can do and not focus on what they cannot. This ideal speaks specifically about respecting each and every child.
I-1.9 To advocate for and ensure that all children, including those with special needs, have access to the support services needed to be successful,
I have seen situations where children with mild learning disabilities are placed in a classroom where they are allowed to act out and there is no structure for learning. Just because a child has a learning disability does not in any way mean that they can not learn anything. This ideal speaks to me because it focuses on EVERY child not just the "normal" child. Everyone has an opportunity to learn and we as professionals must remember that.
DEC Ethical and Evidence Based Practices:
2) We shall use every resource, including referral when appropriate, to ensure high quality services are accessible and are provided to children and families.
Every organization, agency, community action center and school should just be a phone call away if a child is in need of a particular resource. Professionals must be able to coordinate these services if a child or that child's parent calls on them.
Colleague Karmi:
ReplyDeleteI do believe that all children can learn.It is so sad when they have to be labelled and treated as such.As I reflect on my own educational experience I realize that this has been going on for a long time,It is what was called the "hidden curriculum" in the Caribbean.Children were placed in different classes and were given certain subjects to do. For example if you were in the "A" or "B" grades you would have the privilege to do Latin or French.However, if you were placed in the "C" or "D" grades, you would be given Spanish Home Economics, Woodwork or Technical Drawing to do.I really feel strongly about this kind of labeling and that is why as an educator I join your voice in advocating for all children to be given the opportunity to develop and learn.