Blog 3 Sarah Peregrin

              For this blog I interviewed and talked with the director of the center.  I explained to her that I am an advocate for developmental appropriate activities and that I strongly believe that developmentally appropriate practices positively impact young children’s development.  The director agreed with my thoughts.  She explained that each room is developmentally appropriate for the children currently in it.  She explained that if there is a child that has a need that the classroom is not currently meeting, they will modify to meet the child’s need.  The director said, “It is great that you are aware of developmentally appropriate practices.  All child care professionals should be educated on this topic and how to implement developmental appropriate practices.”  I feel the same way; early childcare professionals should understand how providing children with developmentally appropriate practices and experiences benefits their learning and development.   

              I asked the director to explain some examples of developmentally appropriate practices within her center.  Her first example was the curriculum.  She explained that the curriculum is pre-written and designed to meet the developmental needs of children in different age groups and developmental stages.  She also explained that all of the teachers in the center have been trained and also have experience in modifying the curriculum and lessons to meet the individual needs of each child.  Another example she provided was the environment.  The equipment and the available materials differ in each room.  The equipment gets bigger as the children gets bigger, and as the children become more independent and develops the ability to use new materials they will have access to more of a variety of materials.  I explained to the director that the appropriateness of the environment was on of my main topics, because I know that it is important in the development of the young children, but also for the safety of the children. 

              Through this field work experience I hope to gain different points of view on my topic for my research paper.  I am passionate about making a difference in young children’s lives, and I promote positive and appropriate learning experiences.  I hope to encourage and motivate other educators to become an advocate for developmental appropriate practices.  I feel that all educators should work toward improving the quality of child care and practices.  I enjoyed talking with the director; it was interesting to hear her input since she does not actually work in the classroom everyday.  She was able to explain her role in providing developmentally appropriate practices for each child at the center.  She has to make sure she offers appropriate equipment, materials, curriculum, caregivers, food, policies, and so on.  The director has to observe and be sure the caregivers in the center are using developmentally appropriate practices through all parts of their care for the children.