After thoroughly
exploring Harvard University’s “Global Children’s Initiative” website, I was
originally struck by the interactive resources, especially “How Early
Experiences Get into the Body: A Biodevelopmental Framework.” In this
interactive resource, researches discuss how a strong foundation is necessary
for a productive society. “These scientific advances explain how early experiences
are biologically embedded in the development of the brain and other organ
systems and have long-term impacts on physical and mental health as well as
cognitive, language, and social skills” (http://developingchild.harvard.edu/). The resource seeks
to identify ways to prevent unhealthy developmental experiences in an attempt
to strengthen our families, communities, and society as a whole.
From exploring the website, it is evident that the Center on the Developing Child has tapped into, is aware, and is sharing its findings on the role of science in the development of children. Several articles and publications discuss the brain and how it shapes experiences during the early childhood years. When I think of how this applies to equity and excellence in early care and education, I can’t help but shift my mind into preventive mode to ensure that each child, under my care, has positive experiences to build on. Sharing this information with parents, colleagues, and community members may help increase awareness as well as encourage others to begin ensuring that they provide children with the opportunity to make positive connections with the world around them. If this is done, children and students may inherit a desire for learning and interaction and explore the world around them more freely, without fear, hesitation, and limits.
Karla, thank you for sharing this website, I followed the link and was impressed by the amount of information it shares. I found an interesting article on the news and events page, that I would like to read a little later called: "When Brain Development Goes Awry". Furthermore I like their inclusion of multimedia presentations as I am a very slow reader.
ReplyDeleteThis link that you provided has a lot of information that is helpful. I agree that it is very important to keep families and communities aware of healthy development.
ReplyDeleteThis definitely ties into everything we have been talking about this week and how important it is children to be involved in some sort of preschool program. More people should see this resource.
ReplyDeleteJody, I do understand! I enjoyed searching through the website and can definitelly see the influence Science has on child development and early childhood care and education. This knowledge is indispensible to our field and I have even thought of asking our principle if we can send home information to parents that will assist them in learning more about the development of their child. Parent participation needs to move way beyond coming to Math Nights and joining PTA. It needs to get serious.
ReplyDeleteShannon, do you have any other ideas on how to keep parents and the community informed?
ReplyDelete