#1 The start of my EC journey
Before sector visit- I know that most furniture in the preschool have rounded edges and that the preschool will have furniture that are all small sized.
After sector visit- I learnt that there are two main teachers for each class, an English teacher that teaches maths and English and a mother tongue language teacher. Most furniture are wood. Not only are the furniture small sized, the toilets and sinks are as well.
3 new things I have learnt from centres visit
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The preschool integrates outside elements into the classrooms using things like fake vines around the classroom
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I learnt that teachers working there can slowly work up to higher positions like the director/principal of the centre.
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I also learnt that the playing area for children is very open and also includes obstacles like tires lined up in a line for the children to step over.
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2 things I would like to learn more about I would like to know
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what the children do during outdoor play time if it were raining.
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I would also like to know if there are certain guidelines or rules for meals for the children
1 thing I would see as crucial and important as an early childhood educator is to have patience and consistency. Patience is necessary when teaching children, in order for them to feel safe and secure. Consistency is also something that early childhood educators should possess such that children are ensured that their teachers will be present.
#2 My Learning Journey
1. The importance of safety ,health and hygiene in preschools.
Preschools play a critical role in a child’s early childhood development. A clean and safe learning environment supports a child’s physical, emotional and cognitive development. A safe environment where dangerous objects are put away can also prevent possible accidents and injuries as the area is properly maintained. Practicing good hygiene like sanitising hands, surfaces and toys can also increase the prevention and spread of infectious diseases. Also, this aids in lifelong learning of good hygiene practices in children.
2. As an educator, we should promote good health by providing nutritious meals and snacks also by doing frequent physical activities and teaching healthy eating.
Educators should also prevent diseases by sanitising toys, ensuring that food preparation is safe and adheres to food safety standards. Educators should also ensure a safe area and protect children from risk. By removing any sharp corners, slippery floors and also putting on seatbelts during field trips, educators can ensure safety.
#3 Reflection
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My roles as an educator should be to support the developmental domains and help children to reach their milestones in an encouraging manner. I should create a safe and secure environment which fosters learning and development in children. I should also foster the learning of self-help skills like feeding themselves. National frameworks can act as a guide to shape my principles by setting standards and promoting consistency in preschools in Singapore.​
What would you do?
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1) Firstly, I will approach Jethro and comfort him and acknowledge his feelings by saying “I understand that you’re upset, it’s okay to feel this way” and provide comfort by offering a hug. Then, address Daryl’s actions and ask him why he put vegetables into Jethro’s bowl. Then, explain sharing and asking to Daryl that it is good to share, however it is important to respect others. Then, offer a suggestion to Daryl that he should ask if Jethro would like some vegetables instead of assuming. Reassure Jethro and offer him choices and control over his own meal.
2) Acknowledge Jamie’s request and respond to Jamie in a reassuring tone to let her know that i understand her needs. Then, inform the host teacher that Jamie needs to go to the toilet and suggest for the host teacher to supervise the other 5 children while I bring Jamie to the toilet.
3) Firstly, gather those who are ready for hand-washing around the sink, use a friendly tone to encourage them to participate. Then demonstrate proper handwashing technique, including wetting hands, applying soap, rubbing hands in different ways and rinsing and drying with a clean dry towel. While washing, ensure that those who have removed their shoes are joining in and assist those who may need help.​
#4 Reflection
1) Firstly, create a comforting and predictable morning routine for Emily that she can rely on every day. This can provide Emily a sense of security while her mother is away at work. Help Emily understand that her mother will leave for work and the activities that will follow, then her she will see her mother again at the end of the day. Also, create a safe and secure environment for Emily where she feels comfortable. Ask Emily’s parents about Emily’s interests and hobbies that calms her down, such that it can reduce stress in preschool.
2) Tell Teacher Cassandra that she should instead do this: Firstly, address Benjamin’s actions calmly that biting is not acceptable and that it hurts others, we should instead treat other gently. Instead of having a “naughty chair”, offer Benjamin with another activity that he can calm down with. Tell Benjamin that David may feel hurt or upset that he was biting him and suggest an apology from Benjamin to David to foster empathy.
3) Comfort David and reassure David that it is okay to feel hurt and acknowledge his feelings and check the bite for any serious signs of skin penetration. Firstly, redirect Teacher Sharon’s approach by telling her what she should instead do as this may cause insecurities in Lena. Telling Lena that she should take her time and enjoy each bite to create a secure environment where Lena does not feel the need to eat fast and where she feels supported by teachers. Encourage Lena to eat at her own pace.
#5 Supporting children's play
My role as an educator in supporting children's play is to firstly, create a safe environment for play experiences. I should provide a clean, safe, organised and open area for play such that children can play in environments without the risk of being hurt. I should also provide a welcoming space such that children will feel encouraged and comfortable to play, to allow exploration through play with age-appropriate materials.
Secondly, i should also encourage social interaction between the child and peers. This is to promote social-emotional well-being through teachings of sharing, social skills like cooperation and teamwork with their peers. Free, guided and structured play should also be supported by the educators to give the children a chance to explore as well. Also, observing and understanding a child's strengths and weaknesses where they may need more support and assistance in. Educators can plan the play experience in a way that supports the child's skills to develop. All in all, educators should play a part in expanding a child's curiosity and satisfying their exploration while developing social skills with peers by demonstrating model actions as well.