Whom I interacted and observed in my setting: October 22, 2012. I am doing my internship at a preschool/daycare that services 12 children currently. Michelle, the owner, started the program 6 years ago and she currently holds her bachelor's in ECE. When speaking to her about her career experiences, she communicated that she was a director at a facility for 15 years. There are currently 3 infants, 3 (2 year olds), 5 (4 year olds), and one 5 year old in her educational setting. There are two other teachers that help Michelle provide care throughout the day. Michelle is allowed to have up to 16 children, but it is stipulated that she has one teacher available for every 4 children. I observed the students interacting with the teachers and their families during pick up and drop off times.
I particularly took note of the musical and art curriculum that was implemented throughout the day. I did not notice much music or dancing, but I did take note of art projects that are completed everyday for a half an hour. Some of the art projects are child directed, and others are teacher driven. Step by step directions were given for more complicated tasks and for simple tasks the children were able to freely use their imaginations. I asked Michelle if she ever integrated art and music with core subject areas such as math and literacy. She said that she used to be able to create individualized and thoughtful curriculum, but her biggest constraint lately was finding the time. Also, Michelle mentioned that the funding for projects became expensive after awhile. On a brighter note, the parents seemed to enjoy taking home projects and finding out what their children did that day. Michelle maintains a sheet for each child daily describing what they had eaten, what kind of mood they were in, and the favorite activities they participated in. I found this program to be of high quality where the children remained interested and engaged.
Last but not least, I asked Michelle if she involved parents in her curriculum, and she seemed a bit confused. She then asked me what I meant by my question. I rephrased it and asked her if she brought "homework" home for the children where the parents would have to help participate. She did admit that she had not thought of that before. The major enlightening fact of the observation is that Michelle was interested to hear any of my suggestions and said she would be willing to modify any of her curriculum materials in the future.
This sounds like a very nice program. Is it one that is independently run or a state agency. It sounds like although the owner has to follow guidelines she can also do many added activities such as have art and music. I liked the way you were able to weave your advocacy plan ideas into the conversation with the owner. Is this the agency that you also work?
ReplyDeleteYes, she runs her own home group daycare independently. I feel that we can collaborate effectively to ensure a quality program. I too, ran my own licensed daycare for six years and the partnership between us has been progressive and informative. I look at Michelle as a mentor because she has dedicated her time to ensure that a healthy meal is always available. Michelle also provides a challenged curriculum that can be attained along with ensuring the safety and comfort of the children in her care.
ReplyDeleteYes, she runs her own home group daycare independently. I feel that we can collaborate effectively to ensure a quality program. I too, ran my own licensed daycare for six years and the partnership between us has been progressive and informative. I look at Michelle as a mentor because she has dedicated her time to ensure that a healthy meal is always available. Michelle also provides a challenged curriculum that can be attained along with ensuring the safety and comfort of the children in her care.
ReplyDeleteCorey
ReplyDeleteGood for you - responding to someone who posted to your blog. Blogging is posting your comments and responding to what people are posting to you.