REFLECTING ON ESTABLISHED RELATIONSHIPS

For the past eight weeks we have discussed so many consequences that affects early childhood and that will impact our early childhood professional lives. Unfortunately my international contact in Africa did not respond to much of my request but based on many of the websites I explored such as Zero to Three provided me with valuable information on the issues that affect early childhood. I also had the privilege to share my experiences with Jennifer from the USA. I realize how much of the issues internationally that we have in common whether we are classified as developing or developed country. I surely have learned that in order to make some positive impact in the field of early childhood we need to be knowledgeable. Developing international relationships is definitely a plus for me because I know that I can research topics relating to early childhood from these various contacts and be provided with vital information. Based on my learning experiences, information in the field of early childhood is constantly changing and therefore as professionals we have a responsibility to stay informed. One aspect of the course that resonated with me is not to be judgmental or to make assumptions but we must get our facts right. This came across in the topics for me when dealing with culture and diversity; quality and equity in early childhood care and of course poverty. After exploring the many issues that the early childhood field is faced with I have also come to recognize the importance of policies. It is good to advocate but it is also very important on how policies can help to make positive changes for the early childhood field. I believe the early childhood profession is still very young and under recognized especially in developing countries. Not much has been done to ensure to raise the standards of the early childhood field. To me early childhood has been given a raw deal because initially not much emphasis was placed on early childhood development and now we are trying to make things right. Nothing is wrong with this; however, I believe much more support is needed from persons who can help to make the change happen quicker. Again I must emphasize that there is really no place for ignorance or it should be not treated as a trial error game. Scientists, physicians and economists may recognize the importance of investing in early childhood but it is far more important for the early childhood teacher, caregiver and other early childhood professionals to be informed at the highest level so that we all can make informed decisions that will be profitably for the present and also for the future. Early childhood professionals should be the ones to guide and help with implementation of policies; therefore professional goals are too advocated for the field of early childhood so that this field will get the recognition it deserves and not lip service. I must again thank all my colleagues who shared with me during the eight weeks. Your contributions influenced my drive to become a better ambassador for early childhood education. I wish all my colleagues the best in their future endeavours.

Judy