The Heart of Play

Goal #1: Strengthening Professionalism and Teamwork in Practice

Inspired by our Teamwork in Professional Practice course this term and my experience thus far in field placement, my first goal is to enhance my professionalism and teamwork in early childhood settings. I want to focus on respectful communication, collaboration, and ethical decision-making with children, families and colleagues. I will reflect in my observations journal some of the interaction that demonstrate teamwork or ethical practice, referencing specific standards from the College of Early Childhood Educators framework. When possible, I will request feedback from my mentor or supervisor on my collaborative and professional conduct. Using the CECE Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice as a reference, I will apply standards related to teamwork and professionalism in my practice and evaluate my progress through self-reflection. This goal supports my development as a competent and ethical early childhood educator who values inclusive, respectful, and collaborative relationships within high-quality early learning environments. By the end this placement period, I will consistently apply CECE standards in my interactions and document in my journal reflections.

Goal #2: Promoting Social Inclusion for Newcomer Immigrant Children

In my Level 3 placement, I am working with newcomer children. I aim to promote social inclusion and address the unique needs of the children in the program by implementing culturally responsive practices, creating inclusive learning environments, and building strong relationships with families from diverse backgrounds. I will develop and implement some inclusive activities that reflect the cultural backgrounds of the preschool children within the next couple of weeks. I will document weekly observations and reflections on how these children are engaging socially and emotionally in the environment. I will consult with my Field Placement Advisor, mentor and supervisor regarding support of immigrant children and families in early learning settings. This goal aligns with my commitment to creating a welcoming, respectful, and inclusive childcare space that supports the holistic development of children facing challenges of cultural transition and language barriers. By the end of this placement period, I hope to show improved social engagement and emotional well-being among these children through documented observations and feedback from colleagues.

Goal #3: Balancing Commitments and Prioritizing Mental Health

This goal is one I have set for myself before but always struggle to achieve it. As a mother running a busy household, student with a full course load and placement, and a freelancer with work commitments, I want to be able to fulfill my roles without compromising my own personal health. I aim to create a weekly schedule that balances my responsibilities while intentionally setting aside time for mindfulness practice, rest, and personal reflection. I will track my schedule using a planner, ensuring that I include at least three self-care activities per week (e.g. walking, journaling, leisure reading). I will use time-blocking approaches and prioritize tasks based on urgency and importance. I will seek support from family and colleagues to adjust expectations when needed. This goal will help maintain emotional resilience, avoid burnout, and model healthy balance for my kids. I hope to attain this goal with a successful completion of my Level 3 semester while having met work deadlines, fulfilling family commitments, and maintaining good overall health.