1.5: Current Topics in Child Development
- Page ID
- 201742
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Childcare in the U.S. used to be primarily custodial, or providing basic care to meet health and physical needs (Gordon & Browne, 2007). Today, about 60% of children under the age of five are cared for at least once a week by someone other than a parent (U.S.DoE, 2021), and half of working parents, with at least one child under the age of six, utilize a child care program or preschool (Pew Research Center, 2015).
The term quality refers to specific features in early childhood programs that contribute to the healthy, cognitive, social, emotional, physical, and creative development of children. There are many organizations aimed at defining and promoting quality care.
Sometimes, these programs are federal or state-funded initiatives, such as Head Start or state quality rating systems.
Other times, organizations' missions are aimed at promoting quality care through education and training, resources, additional program accreditation credentials, and/or community outreach. The most notable organization is the National Association for the Education of Young Children, or NAEYC.
Other organizations include:
- The Council for Exceptional Children
- Zero to Three
- National Association for Family Child Care
- Child Care Aware
According to NAEYC, features of quality early childhood programs focus on the following principles:
- Creating a caring, equitable community of learners.
- Developing reciprocal relationships with families and fostering community connections.
- Observing, documenting, and assessment of children's developmental learning.
- Teaching to enhance development and learning.
- Planning and implementing an engaging curriculum to achieve meaningful goals.
- Demonstrating professionalism as an early childhood professional.
Throughout our course, we will uncover more about what each of these means and what it looks like in action.
Diversity
Diversity, equity, and inclusion are three different concepts.
- Diversity is defined as the variation among individuals, as well as within and across groups of individuals, in terms of their backgrounds and lived experiences (NAEYC, 2019).
- Equity is defined as the state that would be achieved if individuals faired the same way in society regardless of race, gender, class, language, disability, or any other social or cultural characteristic (NAEYC, 2019). Equity is not the same as equality. Instead of equal treatment, early childhood programs should aim for equal opportunity.
- Inclusion is embodied by the values, policies, and practices that support the right of every infant, young child, and their family regardless of ability to participate in a broad range of activities and context as full members of families, communities, and society (NAEYC, 2019).
In early childhood programs, professionals need to be intentional in providing equitable access to early care and educational experiences.
Technology
In today's world, technology plays an increasingly significant role in early childhood programs, offering both opportunities and challenges. Current events highlight the rapid advancement of technology and its impact on young children's lives. With the COVID-19 pandemic accelerating the adoption of remote learning and digital tools, educators and caregivers are navigating new territory in integrating technology into early childhood education.
While technology can provide access to educational resources, facilitate communication, and enhance learning experiences, it also raises concerns about screen time, privacy, and digital equity. With children spending more time online for learning and socializing, there's a growing need for guidance on balancing screen time with other activities and ensuring that technology enriches rather than replaces human interactions.
"Sad Cartoon versus Technology." by Sean Loyless is licensed under CC BY 2.0.
Furthermore, the digital divide exacerbates disparities in access to technology and internet connectivity, highlighting the importance of addressing equity issues in early childhood education. Professionals must be mindful of creating inclusive learning environments that accommodate children from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds.
In navigating the role of technology in early childhood programs, it's essential to prioritize intentional use, promote digital literacy skills, and foster healthy relationships with technology. By leveraging technology thoughtfully, professionals can enhance learning experiences, empower children to become critical consumers of media, and prepare them for the digital world they will inherit.
Social & Emotional Wellness
Social and emotional learning is the process by which individuals acquire and apply knowledge, skills, and attitudes to develop
- healthy identities,
- manage emotions,
- achieve personal and collective goals,
- establish and maintain supportive relationships,
- make responsible decisions, and
- show empathy.
In today's context, social and emotional wellness in early childhood programs is more critical than ever due to various factors shaping the world around us. Current events such as the ongoing global pandemic, socio-political unrest, and environmental challenges have brought about significant stressors that can impact young children's social and emotional development. As professionals and caregivers, it's crucial to create supportive and inclusive environments that prioritize the well-being of children.
"Young child after Tetanus vaccination." by hdptcar. is licensed under CC BY 2.0.
The pandemic, for instance, has disrupted normal routines, increased isolation, and heightened anxiety levels for many families. Early childhood programs must address these challenges by fostering a sense of safety, stability, and connection within the learning environment. Teaching children coping strategies, promoting empathy, and providing opportunities for social interaction, even in virtual settings, are essential aspects of supporting their social and emotional development.
Moreover, issues such as racial injustice, economic disparities, and climate change can also influence children's sense of security and belonging. Early childhood professionals need to be equipped with culturally responsive practices and anti-bias education to create environments where all children feel valued and respected.
By emphasizing social and emotional wellness in early childhood programs, educators can help children build resilience, develop positive relationships, and acquire essential skills for navigating life's challenges both now and in the future. It's about fostering a foundation of emotional intelligence and empathy that will serve children well throughout their lives.
References
Gordon, A.M. & Browne, K.W. (2007). Beginning essentials in early childhood education. Thomson Delmar Learning.
National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC). (2019). Advancing equity in early childhood education position statement. Retrieved February 22, 2024: https://www.naeyc.org/resources/position-statements/equity
Pew Research Center. (2015). Parenting in America. Pew Research Center. Retreived September 4, 2024: https://www.pewresearch.org/social-t...ng-in-america/
U.S. Department of Education, National Center for Education Statistics. (2021). Early Childhood Program Participation: 2019. (NCES 2020-075REV), Table 1.