My Own Capacity
All
issues affecting children are issues of interest. I have very deep concerns where emotional
development and educational opportunities are involved so I would begin my
advocacy journey with these issues. I
wish to see the achievement gap lessen and human beings learn to regulate
themselves. Kids can learn pretty much
anything in a school setting so I believe it is important to teach them how to
control, regulate, and express their emotions in a positive and productive
manner.
When
advocating, I believe one of the biggest things I need to remember is the fact
that I never ever have to work alone.
There will always be other professionals if not concerned, might be
interested after hearing why it is an important issue. I have to remember to utilize the resources
that are always at hand; my Walden family (professors and colleagues alike),
the people for which I advocate, other advocates of similar passion, early
childhood teachers, administrators, providers, etc. The possibilities of support are truly
endless; I just have to be creative where resources are concerned.
I
have a series of skills that will benefit my advocacy work. I have extensive knowledge of developmentally
appropriate practices; I am passionate about children everywhere; I have
learned to and continue to practice self-regulation, as a result my emotions do
not get in the way of progress. I am
creative, organized and goal-oriented which makes me plan ahead, think outside
the box, and focus on achieving set goals.
I self-reflect very often (talking to myself and writing in journals)
and doing so reminds me of the things that are important to me, helps me stay
focus on the things that make me happy, and keeps me from doubting my
abilities.
Annie,
ReplyDeleteThis was a great post! Emotional regulation is so extremely important. We tend to live in a society that everyone wants things to go their way. There is a norm that if something happens then someone is to blame and we must hurt them. My sister and I were talking the other day. I asked her if she remembered when we were younger if something didn't work correctly, we said it was broken. Now people want an answer, or they want to blame and sue someone. There are some that want instant gratification without working hard for it. We must teach our children about emotion regulation and how to handle life when things do not work out well. Early childhood is a perfect time to teach emotion regulation.
Jo
I love talking to parents and teachers about the importance of wiring a brain to regulate. I talk about it often as a responsibility of adults to give children plenty of experiences in early childhood to develop and practice the art of keeping thoughts, hands, and words to yourself until it is your turn. I had the opportunity to hear Dr. Zelazo from the University of Minnesota talk about the latest research on executive function and poverty. It was compelling. I will send you the 72 page powerpoint in your Walden email box. I hope you find it as fascinating as I do.
ReplyDeleteHey Katy,
DeleteWould you mind sending me the presentation when you get a chance? I would love to take a look at it and see if I can learn anything. Thanks for sharing!!!
Annie P. :)
I love this conversation about self regulation! It is one of my most engaging conversations with parents and teachers. I had the opportunity to hear Dr. Philip Zelazo from the University of Minnesota speak on his research on executive function and poverty. I think you would find it compelling. I will send you the 70 page powerpoint in your Walden email if you are interested. Just let me know. Giving children many opportunities to practice the skills of self regulation is a major responsibility of those of us who work in the field. If only the whole world knew, like we do, that executive function is twice the predictor of academic success we would allow children the time and space to practice it!
ReplyDelete