Issues and Trends in the Early Childhood Field--Final Post

Another 8 weeks in the books! This time around, I have learned so much about issues and trends in early childhood, and have really come out on the other side of this course with even more passion and love for my chosen field of early childhood. I feel that sometimes passion is missing in many peoples' chosen profession, job, or career, and I can honestly say that I love what I am doing, and I can see myself learning and growing each day.

I have been fortunate to have had the opportunity to speak with several international professionals over the last 8 weeks. I emailed back and forth several times with an early childhood professional in Israel, and once with a student/teacher in Great Britain. I really enjoyed the chance to talk about issues in early childhood, and really just see into the lives of people who are working towards the same goal that I am all the way across the world!

Were there consequences about learning more about the international early childhood community? Yes, but mostly positive consequences. First, as a direct consequence of speaking with other teachers I have ignited a larger passion in myself to learn more, and to understand more about the international community. I will admit, I am not well traveled, and by doing research on different countries, and speaking with someone from Israel I would really love to travel and actually see what early childhood looks like outside of the US. Next, a consequence of learning about other countries, I have realized that I am very fortunate to be where I am, with the luxuries that I have. It is very easy to get drawn into a bubble where you don't consider what other professionals might be dealing with on a daily basis. The last 8 weeks have really opened my eyes to other situations and struggles that other professionals are going through.

Finally, the best consequence of my continued learning through Walden is the fire that has been lit underneath me. I have said this after other courses have finished, but this time I feel it the most. My drive to provide high quality early education has always been present, but now it is in full force. I feel rejuvenated, and excited about continuing to learn and ready to pass on my knowledge to the professionals that I work with.

My goal for the early childhood field is to continue to advocate for early childhood standards and regulations. Too often I see programs that lack funding, quality teachers, and because of that children and families struggle. Children need early childhood education, and unless there are standards in place that help guide programs to success, many children miss out on the great start that they need and deserve.