Cda Competency Goal 1

Competency Goal 1 To establish and maintain a safe, healthy learning environment.
To keep my children’s environment safe, I start in the mornings when I come into my class. I check the floors to make sure there are not any objects that may cause tripping and/or falling hazards. I also make sure that things were put away the night before (if I did not close) that need to be locked away or high up from kids i.e. teacher scissors, staplers, any material that was used that may need teacher supervision with use. During the day, I continuously encourage my kids to clean up before the leaving the room or changing centers. As we travel outside, I try to be sure there is not any material on the playground that is/could be dangerous to the children. We talk about the rules when going outside, so everyone understands what is expected and we can have a fun, safe outside playtime.
Adults should model and encourage good health and nutrition habits with children. Children imitate what the adults in their lives do. Good health habits are shown through modeling and encouraging basic daily health needs such as frequent hand washing, tooth brushing, and eating nutritiously, all of these are done on a daily basis in my classroom. Children are amazed with their own bodies and can learn about them and learn the reasons for good health practices. Physical activity goes hand in hand with nutrition when teaching young children to be healthy, Outdoor playtime and indoor gross motor activities are a vital part of being healthy in mind and body. All current emergency information is kept in the classroom for easy access as well as the office. I also make sure that the “special health concerns” folder is easily accessible to all staff that may enter the classroom. I am always on the watch for abuse and neglect. I watch for the behaviors that may indicate such, and report when necessary.
My goal for preschoolers in the learning area is to create an enjoyable environment that encourages play, exploration and learning. To accomplish my goal, I ensure children are being nurtured and that they feel safe. Children need a sense of security.