Tuesday, September 2, 2014
Week One
Many times, I wonder how I could become a better caregiver. As I am starting my new journey as an early childhood educator, I am often intimidated and scared because of all the responsibilities that are involved in this position. I am glad that my director and the teaching staff believe in me, but the question I always question myself is "do I think I can do it?" Do you often feel like you are not fulfilled enough to be the teacher? Sometimes I feel like I do not do enough or I'm just so scared of doing everything wrong. However, without error, I will not be able to learn from my mistakes. As caregivers, the children look up to us for guidance and for answers, what if we do not have the answers? I want the children to be able to look at me and say "that's my teacher!" Although often times it is not that way, because I am still learning and co-teaching with a senior teacher, it is quite difficult at times actually voice out that I am in charge also because I also run to him for help. If you could, please tell me how you handle your classroom and or take care of your classroom and how you give confidence in your teaching skills?
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Sometimes we will not know the answer to their questions. I've learned that it's okay to let them know that you don't know the answer. When I am placed in this type of situation, I would ask them for their input on their question. After their response, I will let them know that I will get back to them when I find the answer. I would also ask them if they would like to help me. Building confidence in teaching skills will take time. I strongly believe that we must first believe in ourselves. It can be a bit intimidating at first but always remember you have all the teaching staffs' back and they will back you up.
ReplyDeleteI agree with Kristin, I've also learned that it's okay to let the children know that you don't know the answer. I think it's great to model that we are all constantly learning together, from each other, and education is something that continues all your life. Involving children in finding the answers to their questions is part of the beauty and excitement in this job. :)
ReplyDeleteHi Monica! I think that we will never be a "Perfect" teacher and we will never have "All" the answers for the children... I learned that thats ok. We are all still learning every day and I think that the children need to understand that teachers still learn every day. I always want to improve as a caregiver and give my everything for the children that I am with every day. The responsibilities to teach children is great, but it just reminds me to always take my job seriously and to understand the amazing impact we have on children's lives. Knowing all these things, strengthens my confidence and drive to become the best caregiver I can be and to grow with the children :)
ReplyDeleteAloha Monica.
ReplyDeleteI know it may seem hard and you may not have all the answers, and I don't think anyone really does. I know when my children ask me about something I don't know about I tell them, "I don't know, but let's find out together." They love to be involved in their learning. I'll bring in books or pictures and I'll do some research on the internet. You don't have to be perfect or know everything, but always strive to grow and learn. I think I learned more about things while creating unit studies or researching things for my students than I did in school.
Also children don't mind if you mess things up or forget things. They'll let you know. Just the other day I messed up one of our finger plays that I have done a hundred times. We all have our good days and bad days, the thing is to make the most of your interactions with your children. Make them feel empowered and appreciated, and they'll say, "That's my teacher!" because they know you care and try your best. Good luck on your journey.