Reflection on our professional recognition and value Recently, lots of short clips and videos about teaching have been popping up on my IG. I have noticed that many of them are talking about teaching strategies, the techniques of handling behavioral issues or management. Most of them provide great tips for the teachers to practice in the field. However, I haven’t seen much about how we can support ourselves to cope with the stress and demands so we do not get burned out? First, I think we need to face the reality that being a teacher, especially working with young children can be undervalued, comparing the hours and stress we have to take to what we receive.Many people might just show their appreciation by just “saying” it instead of genuine recognition.I remember once I had an interview to renew my visa and the officer asked about my occupation. I answered I am an ECE, early childhood educator, and he frowned his eyebrows, looking confused. My son said “ oh, she...
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Can you show mom and dad the chiu-chiu train you made on the wall? Throughout my teaching years, I always like to display my students’ work, especially the little one's arts and crafts. At the daycare, we make one arts project per week. It is usually simple with a few steps. However, I have noticed how displaying the artwork brings excitement and joy to the little ones. That makes me wonder what other benefits can be by showcasing their work? Increase self-confidence The little ones like to see and talk about their artwork when they see it on the wall. They are proud of their effort and feel valued for their individuality. Even though their work is processed art, they still have options for colors or on the arrangement. For example, when they make a chiu-chiu train, they can pick the colors and decide how to arrange the cars according to their desires, to show their individual expression. Create a positive learning environment A sense of belongings is significant for ...
Gradual entry for little ones at a daycare Gradual entry is an essential step for the little friends who just start their new adventures at a daycare. Therefore, making the process as smooth as possible is the key to help them to accommodate the new environment faster and then settle down. So, how can we, as teachers, make it successful? Here are some tips. Create a friendly and welcoming classroom I do believe the physical environment has a great influence on little children. In our classroom, there are shelves with toys as “stations” as well as table time activities. I usually like to direct the little friends to the shelves first so they can see their play options. Then, they can move to the carpet to play where they feel more comfortable or relaxed. Acknowledge their anxiety and comfort them with gentle and calm voice It is very common to see little friends crying for their parents at drop-off. In those moments, I have the child sitting on my lap...