Karen's Philosophy of Early Childhood Administration
The support of a community consisting of staff, volunteers, and families is a necessity when it comes to the success of early childhood administration. Early childhood administration needs to be a partnership between parents and staff. As an Administrator, the facilitation of programming that is creative and innovative is a top priority. This can be made possible with things such as age-appropriate activities and a stimulating environment. Our summer programming is packed full of interesting activities such as working in our outdoor garden. This not only promotes healthy eating and living but it teaches children how to work together to achieve a common goal. They work hard all summer and can enjoy the fruits of their labor in the fall.
Teachers should be respected for their vision as well as their career in education and valued for their skill and knowledge. They need to continue training and professional development to help support the mission and vision of the program. Teachers need to be a positive presence in the community, delight in children and be committed to families. The night programs that we have are an excellent example of how we bring our staff and parents together to learn about one another and have fun together.
Families need to be able to have a feeling of confidence that their children are safe and valued for who they are. They also need to be able to know that their family traditions, ideas and bond are important to the center and respected. The environment of early childhood education needs to be secure so children can feel empowered after mastering a new skill and willing take the risks that allow them to do so. As Administrators it is our job to see that such an environment exists. Children need a place where they can discuss their dreams and fears as well as learn that their actions have an impact on others. They also need a place where they learn that their actions impact others along with the importance of compassion and empathy because these are skills that they can always use even when they are older. Even after some of our students age out of our program we keep them on as volunteers to help them to continue to grow as well as teach the skills they will need to succeed as young adults.
Teachers should be respected for their vision as well as their career in education and valued for their skill and knowledge. They need to continue training and professional development to help support the mission and vision of the program. Teachers need to be a positive presence in the community, delight in children and be committed to families. The night programs that we have are an excellent example of how we bring our staff and parents together to learn about one another and have fun together.
Families need to be able to have a feeling of confidence that their children are safe and valued for who they are. They also need to be able to know that their family traditions, ideas and bond are important to the center and respected. The environment of early childhood education needs to be secure so children can feel empowered after mastering a new skill and willing take the risks that allow them to do so. As Administrators it is our job to see that such an environment exists. Children need a place where they can discuss their dreams and fears as well as learn that their actions have an impact on others. They also need a place where they learn that their actions impact others along with the importance of compassion and empathy because these are skills that they can always use even when they are older. Even after some of our students age out of our program we keep them on as volunteers to help them to continue to grow as well as teach the skills they will need to succeed as young adults.