The wonders of child development and the long-term consequences of the experiences of young children has made me focus on child development and early learning a key policy focus on the early childhood education programs shows a variety of short- and long-term outcomes from high-quality early childhood programs. As a result, the early childhood field is focusing on developing programs and systems that lead to the best outcomes for children. In addition, alignment of programs for children from birth to age 5 with the K-12 system and considering the multiple facets of the transition to kindergarten are also being undertaken. An overarching consideration is the development of a coordinated system of early childhood programs to maximize the positive growth and development of young children.
A recent report issued by the Department of Education found that statewide, only 49 percent of kindergartners were deemed “fully ready” at the time they entered kindergarten, with the percentage much lower for poor children (2002). It is anticipated that children not “fully ready” will need special and more intensive teacher support in order to succeed in kindergarten, thus creating a problem not only for the child but for the teacher who is charged with educating children with a wide range of knowledge and skills.
Christopher-
ReplyDeleteI have so enjoyed reading your blog over the last few months of this program. I think we have much work to do in this field to bring our knowledge to the professional community. I look forward to learning along side you and others and making the best effort we can to improve the lives of children and families.
P.S. If you ever have the opportunity to go to Africa, do not hesitate. I learned more about education and myself in that 2 weeks than in any college course.
Sincerely,
Katherine
Christopher, it was great to read your thoughts considering the importance of children being prepared and ready to enter Kindergarten. We as early childhood professionals play a key role in the lives of children that come to our program to help them learn and develop social and emotional skills which are so key in helping children be ready to learn. Thank you for bringing up this valuable topic. In preschool, we only get 1-2 years usually to build relationships and nurture and teach each child, meeting their specific needs and helping them realize their potential and ability as learners. I wish you success in all your next steps as a professional in this wonderful field!
ReplyDeleteChristopher, I really liked your reference at the end of your posting in regards to Kindergartners not being ready for Kindergarten. I am curious to know, though, if you think it is becouse of quality early care and leaning experiences or because the standards for Kindergarten are too high.
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