The Heart of Play

As part of our field placement course, in the beginning of the term I set out three goals for myself.

1. Effective observation and documentation is integral to assessing development and planning customized learning experiences. I will develop skills in observing and documenting children’s behaviour, learning styles, and developmental milestones through techniques taught in Field Placement classes. By discussing and reviewing my observation logs with my Field Placement Associate, Margaret Ellen, I will implement her feedback to ensure my observations and documentation meets professional ECE standards by the end of this placement term.
2. Creating an inclusive learning environment ensures that all children, regardless of their abilities or cultural backgrounds, feel welcomed and supported. I will improve my ability to create inclusive learning environments by researching and implementing inclusive practices that address diverse learning needs, cultural backgrounds, and developmental abilities. By observing and reviewing how inclusivity is practiced in the field in the Lab School and if the opportunity arises, design and implement some inclusive activities within and ECE environment, I can fulfill this goal within next four months.
3. Strong classroom management is essential for creating a positive learning environment to support children’s cognitive and emotional development. I will enhance my classroom management skills by implementing some behaviour guidance techniques learned through my courses during my field placement sessions. Highlighting and reviewing how these techniques are applied this term in the various classrooms (infant, toddler, pre-school and kindergarten) with my Field Placement Associate will allow me to gain a better understanding of what works and what can be altered and improved.