Philosophy Statement

Personal Philosophy Statement
I believe that every child is a uniquely special individual who must be provided with a secure, caring, and stimulating environment in which to grow and mature cognitively, emotionally, physically, and socially. It is my desire as a future educator to help children reach optimal results in these areas by providing an environment that is safe, supports risk-taking, and invites a sharing of ideas. There are three fundamental elements that I believe are conducive to establishing such an environment:
(1) The teacher acting as a guide
(2) Allowing the child's natural curiosity to direct his/her learning
(3) Promoting respect for all things and all people.
I strongly agree with the National Association for the Education of Young children in that high quality, developmentally appropriate programs should be both available and accessible to all children. Children under the age of eight have enormous potential for growth and achievement, and it is my sincere belief that they have the right to achieve their full potential. NAEYC divides the concept of developmentally appropriateness into two aspects; age appropriateness and individual appropriateness. This intrinsically coincides with my belief that children are unique individuals who may or may not reflect the usual characteristics of other children within the same age group.
When the teacher acts as guide by providing access to information as opposed to acting as the primary source of information, the child’s search for knowledge can be met as they learn to find their own answers to questions. In order for children to construct knowledge, they must be afforded the opportunity to discover for themselves as well as practice skills in authentic real world situations. By providing children with access to hands-on activities and allowing adequate time and space to use materials that reinforce the lesson being presented, educators create the opportunity for individual discovery and for the construction of knowledge. Furthermore, I believe that a developmentally appropriate curriculum for young children should be individually tailored to the specific needs of each child and age group. Different children/ages have different needs, interests, and developmental tasks capabilities, and the curriculum must reflect these variations.
Equally important to self-discovery is each child having an opportunity to study things that are both meaningful and relevant to their life, cultural beliefs, and interests. Developing a curriculum around children’s interests fosters an intrinsic motivation and stimulates their passion to learn. One way to take learning in a direction relevant to the child’s interest is to invite dialogue about the lessons being presented. Given the opportunity for input, children generate ideas and set goals that make for much richer activities than any educator could ever create or imagine by themselves. When children have ownership in the curriculum, they are motivated to work harder and master the skills necessary to reach their goals.
Helping children to develop a deep love and respect for themselves, others, and their environment occurs through an open sharing of ideas and a judicious approach to discipline. When the voice of each child is heard, an environment evolves where children feel free to express themselves. I believe children have greater respect for their teachers, their peers, and the lessons presented when they feel safe and sure of what is expected of them. In setting fair and consistent rules initially and stating the importance of every activity, children are shown respect for their presence and time. In turn they learn to respect themselves, others, and their environment.
As for myself, teaching will provide an opportunity for continuous learning, reflection, and growth. My goal as a future educator is to instill a love of learning within the children under my care, as I share my own passion for learning with them. I feel there is a need for compassionate, strong, and motivated individuals who are authentically sincere about working with children. In our competitive global society it is important for children to not only receive a solid education, but to work with someone who is aware of and sensitive to their individual circumstances and needs. I am such a person and I will continually strive to be the best educator that I can be for the sake of the generations that follow.