As I reflect on the amount of
information learned, discussed, and shared throughout this course I felt a
sense of pride to call myself an early childhood professional. I gained a bit
more understanding on my personal role as an early childhood professional in
believing I can advocate for children and to desire positive social change is a
start. I can recall wanting to multitask and dreaming of not only looking at
the many issues impacting the life of a child but finding solutions to each and
every issue. However, finding a focus and just brainstorming of ways to impact
children of military families resonates with me. As I examined the military
community I found that this community is one I desire the most social change
because of past experiences. And wanting to see children of military families
taken care of and not a part of an overlooked population. I believe a child’s
learning and development should never be overlooked or push over. These
children are literally our futures and I see teaching them from the start is
critical. I became determined to build this community of practice and strive to
watch the impact of social change. I also learned I really need to dig deeper
into finding more of the history of children of military families and where the
change began. All the resources I found, as well as the personal interviews I had
with other early childhood professionals working on military installations had
difficulty discovering the history. I enjoyed reading several job opportunities
set to advocate for children across the globe and said to myself Too Bad I can’t have super powers and clone
myself to participate in all these opportunities at one time because in reality
I can’t be at 4 places at once. I felt like I needed to be a part of all of
the organizations listed because it seems a vast amount of work needs to be done
and we are just getting started. I trust and thank my colleagues to continue to
advocate for children where one person is unable to. I realize how important my
job is as a training and curriculum specialist especially to the people I’m
mentoring. Before the start of this degree I only saw myself as a student but
now I see myself as a student as well as a leader and mentor. I realize I
advocate for children by also influencing the upcoming students/teachers by
expressing my passion to provide quality care with children. My long term goal
is to continue to express my passion for the field of early childhood to others
and hope the program continues from generation to generation.
I would like to take a moment to thank my colleagues
and Dr. Darragh for your knowledge, comments, encouragement throughout the
course I greatly appreciate everyone’s input and support. Best Wishes to my
colleagues for future endeavors in the field. Congratulations Everyone! My
email address attached to my blog will remain the same should you wish to
contact me I remain open to questions, comments, concerns or building beautiful
relationships and networking.
Jdwarren83@gmail.com
