Time Well Spent

I want to begin my wishing everyone a huge CONGRATULATIONS!!!! We did it!!!! The road has been long, but the journey has been well worth it! I must say that at one time (I was pregnant with my daughter and experiencing many complications), I did not think that I would finish. However with encouragement from my family and strength from God, I re-enrolled and began classes the same day I gave birth!!!! I'm beyond excited and proud, as we all should be!!!!



This course and M.S. program has taught me MANY valuable lessons, both personally and professionally.

1) I am stronger and determined then I could EVER imagine! Resilience builds character  This course has taught me the true meaning of hard work and dedication.

2) A community of practice can make an everlasting and huge impact on the Early Childhood field. When a group of people, with similar interest, gather together the possibilities are endless.

3) To always push my mind to the limit. I can achieve any and everything that I set out to do. The only thing and person that can stop me, is me!


I have ALOT that I aspire to accomplish. One long term goal is to earn my Ed.S in Early Childhood Education. After earning my next degree, I aspire to teach at a 4 year university.


I would like to thank Dr. Davis for all of the feedback and encouragement! I have enjoyed this course and I have enjoyed the challenge! To all of my fellow colleagues CONGRATS once again! I thank you all for the engaging "conversations" through blog assignments and discussion boards! I wish EVERYONE the best in all future endeavors! God Bless!!!!



 Inspirational Quotes

Tell me and I’ll forget; show me and I may remember; involve me and I’ll understand.-Chinese Proverb


The beautiful thing about learning is that no one can take it away from you.-B.B. King

Education's responsibility is to replace an empty mind with an open one. -Malcolm Forbes

Every individual matters. Every individual has a role to play.
Every individual makes a difference. - Jane Goodall


References
http://www.positivityblog.com/index.php/2007/04/20/21-inspirational-quotes-on-education/

http://www.songs4teachers.com/inspiration.htm

Jobs/Roles in the ECE Community: International

*World Organization for Early Childhood Education- This organization was created in an effort to advance and advocate on behalf of the well-being of all children throughout the world, regardless of race, gender, religion and national or social origin. Members extend across more than 60 countries.

* Association for Childhood Education International is dedicated to promoting the education and development of children in an ever evolving world through a variety programs and projects. ACEI's motto states "Bright futures for every child, every nation"

* Division for Early Childhood is an international organization which extends memberships to those who work with or on behalf of young children with disabilities and other special needs. The overall goal of this organization is to support policies and evidence-based practices for development of young children with special needs.

http://www.omep-usnc.org/

http://www.acei.org/

http://www.dec-sped.org/

I chose to research these three organizations because each has a goal to aide in the development of children, regardless of what country they reside within. The Early Childhood field extends beyond the borders of the United States into several countries. Even though we may speak different languages and have different cultural and religious beliefs, we are all bound by the passion we share for educating young children.

Employment Opportunities

Executive Director for DEC (http://www.dec-sped.org/About_DEC/Professional_Opportunities)

• ·         a successful track record of organizational, project, and staff management  
• ·         demonstrated ability to identify information technology needs and oversee their implementation to support an
• ·         ability to access organizational resources to monitor, evaluate, and analyze legislation and policy initiatives and their impact on DEC and/or its membership
• ·         proven track record of skills in marketing, public relations, and communication strategies
• ·         experience in methods of revenue generation congruent with DEC’s mission and primary outcome
• ·         implementation of a range of evidence‐based professional development opportunities  appropriate to the field
• ·         experience in Early Intervention/Early Childhood Special Education or related field

Creator of Early Childhood Development Handbook  Volunteer-online (http://unjobs.org/vacancies/1360680399987)

• ·         University degree in Education or Social Sciences with specialized training in ECD;
• ·         3+ years experience developing ECD curriculum for non-native English speakers;
• ·         Strong analytical skills, excellent writing skills and communication skills; and
• ·         Experience working on ECD programs in Southeast Asia would be considered an advantage.

Program Officer- Conrad Hilton Foundation International (http://unjobs.org/vacancies/1359425198375)

• ·         Graduate degree in public health, international development, public policy, early childhood education or a related field.
• ·         Minimum of 5 years of relevant work experience and a practical understanding of grant making and/or the nonprofit sector in program development and/or management.
• ·         A passion for the Foundation's mission and international program areas, particularly Children Affected by HIV and AIDS.
• ·         Significant international field experience, preferably in children affected by HIV and AIDS, early childhood development or a related area.
• ·         Strong organizational, analytical, and time management skills with high attention to priority and detail.
• ·         Excellent written and oral communication, presentation and interpersonal skills.
• ·         Strong conceptual and critical thinking abilities.
• ·         Willingness and capability for domestic and international travel as needed.
• ·         Excellent computer skills, including Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint and database experience. Familiarity with GIFTS desirable.

Jobs/Roles in the ECE Community: National/Federal

National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC)- is the world's largest organization working on behalf of young children. The organization seeks to improve professional practice, supports EC programs to achieve quality care, and create groups and individuals who are committed to the field of Early Childhood Education.

National Child Care Association- the purpose of NCCA is to promote the growth of and protect  the interest of quality early childhood care and education.

National Association of Early Childhood Teacher Educators- this organization seeks to promote the professional growth of member, advocate on behalf of improvements in the ECE field, and also serves as a communication network. .


Each of these organizations appeals to the Early Childhood educators/professional development in some form. In addition, each organization seeks to correlate the education of staff to the overall success/development of young children (quality care).

Data Collectors (National Institute for Early Education Research)

Applicants should be graduate students, have a BA or be upperclassman undergraduate students with a focus on child development, early childhood, psychology or related field. 

Knowledgeable about child development and developmentally appropriate early childhood teaching practices (e.g. Teacher) preferred. 

Experience in classroom settings and/or working with children highly preferred.

 Must be available to work 2-3 times per week during data collection period; days are flexible and must be available to attend intensive trainings that vary between 2 days and a full week. 

The successful candidate is expected to demonstrate an excellent academic record (GPA should be 3.0 or better).

EDUCATIONAL CONSULTANT (Frank Porter Graham Child Development Institute)

Master's degree in education, special education, instructional design, educational technology, educational media, or related discipline with coursework in curriculum development or learning theory; 

                                                                       OR

a Bachelor's degree in the assigned discipline and two years of experience in teaching, educational testing, or instructional design and curriculum development; or equivalent combination of training and experience. 

Three years of experience in program planning and administration, consultation, or related work, preferably in an early childhood or education system at the local, state or federal level

http://www.naeyc.org/

http://www.nccanet.org/

http://www.naecte.org/

Exploring Roles in the ECE Community: Local & State

There are various organizations and community of practices throughout Scotland County and North Carolina. As an ECE professional, the following organizations appeal to me:


Scotland County Partnership for Children and Families (Board Members)


Scotland County Child Care Association


North Carolina Division of Child Development and Early Education



Each of these organizations or C.O.P's are centered around the development of young children. Scotland County Partnership for Children and Families strive to serve the children  families, and child car of Scotland County. In order to become a board member one must be elected and must either be a parent, child care center owner, family child care home provider, or an employee of a local business (includes but no limited to, local Health Department, Department of Social Services, community college, or any business owner). Memebers must be willing to serve for one year, attend monthly meetings, update rules and regulations (as needed), approve funding for activities, and volunteer during various SCPCF child-centered events.

Scotland County Child Care Association is a vital part of the ECE community of Scotland County. Members must be owner, directors, or teachers within child care centers or homes within Scotland County. Members meet as scheduled, in order to discuss various methods and ideas to implement in classes and homes. In addition, the group serves as a support system for local child care providers. Meetings are also held to discuss any changes to state laws, sanitation rules, and health/safety laws.


North Carolina Division of Child Development and Early Education is a state wide organization that mandates rules and regulations for the centers and homes in North Carolina. State consultants are assigned specific counties. The purpose of NCDCDEE is to ensure that childcare center and homes stay in compliance of all child care rules and regulations.



Job Opportunities:


Early Childhood Instructor (Richmond Community College)

Applicant must have a Master's degree with 18 hours within the specified field.

Prior experience (5 years preferred) teaching or working within the Early Childhood field.

Willing to instruct students on campus and/or online

Familiar with Microsoft Office Programs

Familiar with Black Board learning system

Work full time (40 hours per week), days and time vary depending upon course




Early Childhood Division Director (Onslow County Partnership for Children)

 Bachelor’s Degree in Child Development, Early Childhood Education, Human Services or related field is required plus a minimum of three years related experience. A Master’s Degree is preferred.

Proficiency in budgeting, public relations, staff management, grant writing, and utilization of community resources is helpful. 

 Must be able to communicate and work effectively with people from diverse backgrounds.  

 Must have proficiency in Microsoft Office and a good working knowledge of computer program/software.

 Prior work experience with Smart Start and Child Care Resource and Referral is highly desirable.

CHILD CARE QUALITY CONSULTANT 

Bachelor’s Degree in Child Development, Early Childhood Education or related field, plus experience in early childhood program services.  

Familiarity with childcare regulatory policies/procedures, ITERS-R & ECERS-R.

Excellent communication, organizational, public speaking, training & computer skills required

Week 8: Thank You

I have truly enjoyed this course! I want to thank all of my colleagues and Dr. Darrargh for making this course an enjoyable learning experience. I have gained so much insight into what it takes to communicate with families, children, providers, and others whom I will come in contact with through my career. I would like to wish all of my colleagues the best as you all embark on various professional journeys, as well as the end of this journey to obtain our Masters of Science in Early Childhood Studies, Only 3 more courses!!!!! Best wishes!

LaQuasia Cousar

laquasia.cousar@waldenu.edu
laquasialcousar@yahoo.com

Week 6

Throughout my 25 years of life, I have had the pleasure of working with a variety of people for various reason, in various settings. While some groups have been more pleasing to work with than others, I still learned a valuable lesson and manged to complete the task at hand. As I think back over the many groups I have been affiliated with, I would have to say that it was hardest for me to say goodbye to my coworkers at my last job, which was a childcare facility! Even though we did not have the perfect working  relationship, we all had formed a family like bond. In spite of our differences, we all knew that our common goal was  to provide the best care possible for the children and families that we served. We all had worked at the center for 3 or more years, so over that length of time we had developed friendships. Even though I am no employed there, I interact with these women often as my current job calls me to  provide services within childcare facilities in Scotland County. My former co workers and myself actually had a while to prepare for my "goodbyes". They all knew that I was months away from graduating and that afterwards, I sought to find a better paying job that allowed me to help even more children in our community. 

Although we all knew I was leaving, we did not know a specific time, therefore I was unable to have an official celebration or last day with my co workers and students. I wished that I would have been able to have some sort of closure. It's sad because whenever I go back to the center to do an assessment or for a Reading is Fundamental visit the children get excited and ask if I'm back to stay. 

I have been apart of this Master's program for a year and a half. After this course, I only have my 2 specialization courses and my capstone. That's roughly 5-6 months left. As I prepare to adjourn this phase in my life, I will likely exchange "professional contact information" with my colleagues. Adjourning is important because it brings closures and will also allow members to remain in contact or connected with one another. 

Conflict Resolution

Pregnancy is a wonderful and joyous experience. In my case it also was full of uncontrollable emotions. About 9 months ago, I was 7 months pregnant with my daughter. I had already decided on her name, but her father asked if he assist in her naming. Reluctantly, I told him yes. My family had already feel in love with her name so they were a little upset that her first name would be changed. When I thought we had finally decided on a name, I posted on Facebook that our daughter's name would be "Ashtyn Omega Ratliffe", immediately my family and others stared commenting on how that did not like the name and it was ugly. I rudely told them that they could all shut up and when they had children (or more children) that they could name their own child. I also rudely told them that Andrew and I made our child and since they had no part in her conception their opinion did not mean anything to me (my choice of words were different but hey I was emotional :) ).  Something as small as my daughter's name caused confusion and conflict in my family. I ended up not speaking to my sister for a week and blocked her from my Facebook page. Eventually we all apologized and began speaking again. After all of this, her father ended up saying that he did not tell me that he wanted to name her "Ashytn". Apparently my pregnancy affected my hearing as well, so that entire disagreement was for nothing.

After reviewing this weeks resources, I realized that this situation could have been handled much differently. First, I should have respected my families opinion and we could have agreed to disagree. I knew that her name would be decided upon my myself and her father so I should have never let the opinions of others upset me. Had I been respectful,my family would have reciprocated the behavior and we all would have responded in a rational manner. Secondly, I could have said how I felt but in a less defensive and rude manner. I can honestly say that I was an emotionally unstable pregnant woman, but I should have learned how to better handle my feelings.

By the way we ended up naming our daughter "Andrea Omega" and everyone loves her name, as well as her!

LaQuasia: The Commuincator

Based upon my results, I was stunned that I scored a 62 on the verbal aggression quiz. I'm not sure if I misunderstood the wording, but I always give respect and would prefer to back down, then engage in arguments or debates, even if it is considered inoffensive. I do not engage in confusion, therefore I do what is necessary to stay away from it.  My sister and supervisor scored me in the in the low category (37 and 41), which is still slightly outside of my character.


Even though, I scored low and moderate in the aggressive listening category the descriptions are allowing me to realize that backing down is not always the best tactic. I can respectfully argue my point without insulting one's viewpoint or character. In addition, I can also learn to put personal feelings aside to prevent my trustworthiness from effecting my judgement. Being an easy going and people person, I can admit that at times I allow others to impact my judgement. I must learn when and where to draw the line, especially if it ever begins to effect my professional judgement.


I can utilize mild forms of aggressive behavior, especially within my professional world. As a Early Childhood professional, I am also an advocate for the rights of young children. Therefore, there may be times where I may have to professionally and respectfully debate/argue with someone who is for cutting funds or programs. Public speaking is one of my strong features. Apart of my job description calls for me to provide trainings/workshops to childcare providers. I am able to utilize my strong attribute to aide in the advancement of the ECE field. 


Effective communication is important in professional and personal life because we all come into contact with people everyday. If we are going to collaborate and communicate, why not do it an a manner that will yeild positive results in all settings and circumstances. 

Week 3

Over this short span of time, I have learned what it entails to communicative effectively with others. The following three strategies will continue to be utilized by me when communicating with parents, providers, and children.

1. Platinum rule- Instead of treating people the way I would want to be treated, I'm going to place myself into their position and treat them the way that they would want to be treated. This will allow me to view the context of the conversation from the other person's view.It allows me to think before I speak and to be respectful at all times.

2. Listening- A conversation takes two or more people. Therefore, it can not be dominated by one person. In order to communicate, one must be able to close their mouth at times and let the other person talk. In addition, you must also listen attentively to what he or she is speaking about. By listening attentively I will know how to appropriately respond. 

3. Be aware facial expression and body language- These two forms of nonverbal communication are imperative and can make or beak a conversation. Eye contact is important and shows the speaker that you are listening and that your attention is not elsewhere. 

Week 2

As we go throughout our daily lives, we must interact with others in some way. Whether its verbal or non-verbally, our words and actions will work in our favor or work against us.  For the purposes of this assignment, I DVR'ed the show "House". There were 8 main characters. Five of the eight were younger medical students or first year doctors. There was an older man around 50, who I assumed was the boss because he walked around the hospital with the medical students and was also instructed them in a small classroom. There was also two other doctors, one a woman and the other a man, both who seem to have high positions within the hospital. Based upon their nonverbal communication all of the characters did not get along with or either had varying opinions from the older male doctor. The older male doctor seemed to have a "know it all" attitude and is very sarcastic.

After watching the show with the volume on, I realized that some of my assumptions were correct. the 5 younger characters were taking up residence at this hospital. The older man was the main character Dr. House.  Dr. House, along with the 5 residents, and other doctors worked in the high risk or intensive care unit of the hospital. Throughout the episode House displayed sarcastic behavior towards his colleagues and towards the patients.This show did not interest me, therefor it was not easy for me to understand or get into. However had I been watching Law and Order: SVU, I would have been able to tell you the relationship the characters had with one another as well as how the interacted and communicated with each other and those that they came into contact with. 


My "aha" moment came when I realized that even though House was sarcastic and disrespectful, his services and expertise come highly recommended. In addition, his colleagues respected him, even though they did not agree with him.

Week 1

In regards to competent communicators there are many people who come to mind. However, for the purposes of this blog I believe that my pastor would be the best person to use an example. Pastor Darrel "BJ" Gibson is not only a pastor, he is also a member of the Scotland County School Board. Because he carries various titles, the way in which BJ communicates varies depending upon the targeted audience, purpose, and setting.

During morning worship, BJ delivers his message by providing a topic and a scripture that his message derives from. In addition, he will use additional scriptures to provide validity to his message. During his message, BJ preaches with enthusiasm, while also utilizing a serious tone or demeanor. Depending upon the message, he may some time have to tell a story that may make us laugh, but it relates to the message. As a member of the School Board, I can imagine that BJ's demeanor is serious and that he speaks utilizing factual information that will be beneficial to the success of students. Because BJ graduated from elementary, middle, and high school in Scotland County, I'm sure that he is able to refer to his experiences as a student to better justify his point. A interesting and key trait of BJ, is that he is able to impact the the youth and young adults, as well as those who are over 35 years of age. My pastor is only 23 years old, but he possess the wisdom and maturity of someone twice his age. When BJ speaks you have no choice but to listen! 

I would model communications after BJ because he knows how to communicate effectively. BJ knows which type of behavior to display based upon the setting and intended audience. In addition, BJ knows how to empathize, comfort, and encourage others. 

Professional Hope and Goals

The last 8 weeks have been an interesting and insightful journey. I have truly and thoroughly enjoyed this course.

I hope to continue to impact the lives of children and families, inspite of our differences. Our differences allow us to be the unique individuals and families that we are.

It is my goal to use every concept and idea, learned through this course, in order to further educate providers on various aspects of diversity. In addition, it is my goal to provide examples and methods on how to incorporated these new ideas throughout their program.

I would personally like to thank each of my colleagues for allowing me insight into their lives and for also sharing their thoughts and beliefs. I sincerely hope that we will all take what we have learn and use it to effectively impact and change lives. I wish everyone success in all of their future and educational endeavors.

Welcoming Families From Around the World

Working as  social worker, in Robeson County school system, I was notified that a new family would be moving into our school district with three children ages 4, 5,  and 8. The youngest child would be enrolled in our school's NC Pre-K program, while the other two would be enrolled in kindergarten and third grade. This family is unique from others, because they recently immigrated from Indonesia.

As the school social worker, it is my duty to serve as a liaison between home and school. In order to be culturally responsive towards this family I would research Indonesian culture. Learning about Indonesian culture would be important in order to learn proper forms of communication, physical contact (i.e handshaking), education. Next, I would take the opportunity to personally meet the family and discuss any questions, concerns, and expectations. Once this task has been completed, I would meet with each child's teacher to ensure that each child's need would be accommodated and to ensure that the teacher has become familiar with the family's culture. Next, I would work with the teachers to ensure that diversity, including Indonesian culture, has been positively displayed throughout the classrooms. This is important because the children will be inquisitive and it would be ideal to have materials that relate to Indonesian culture in order for the children to have a better understanding of their new peers, their family, and native country. Finally, once school has begun a form of cultural awareness would be implemented into the curriculum, which would allow the children and their family to share Indonesian culture and for them to become familiar with American culture, in addition to various cultures throughout the school. In addition, I would always have an interpreter on site to help diffuse language/culture barriers.

The above acts would allow me to culturally responsive because I would be able to have a basic understanding of Indonesia culture. In addition, I will also assist the family in adjusting to their new lives in a new country. It is important that children have an understanding of the various cultures around them. Teachers would also assist in the families transition by having basic knowledge to help their students understand and build a level of respect for one another.

The Personal Side of Bias, Prejudice, and Oppression

This morning, around 6:00 a.m., I was woken out of my sleep. I was unable to go back, so I decided to watch an old show from the 1990's called "New York Undercover". On this episode, the NYPD police, J.C, Torres, and McNamara, were investigating a string of black churches that were bombed. All though this show was fictional, it still displayed the hatred that many African Americans encountered during the early 1900's and Civil Rights Movement. At the end of the show a list of churches, from around the U.S., that were bombed during the 1990's.

This incident diminishes  equity because it gives off the impression that African Americans and their property is not valued. The prime suspect in the case stated that the churches were being burned in order to rid America of all minorities to get back to a "pure" America.

This incident saddens me because it shows that 30 years after the Civil Rights Movement, this level of prejudice still exist. Even though this show is fictional it depicted current events during this time. I'm still in awe at the level of ignorance that are displayed by people. It often makes me wonder will we ever live in a nondiscriminatory society.


If there was something that I could change, it would be the similar incidents that occurred in real life.

Practicing Awareness of Micro Aggression

This past Tuesday a young women, of a different race, asked me "Why can black people keep their hair oily and don't have to wash it everyday". I am not a licensed cosmetologist, therefore I did not know the appropriate answer. All I could tell her was that hair textures vary from person to person, not necessarily because of one's race. I honestly believe that she did not meant any harm. When reviewing the resources for this week, it opened my eyes to just how often scenarios such as this, and the discussion board, occur.

Week 4 resources have allowed me to realize that discrimination does not have to be as open and obvious as a burning cross. People often tend to say or act in ways that are totally oblivious to them as being racist or discriminatory.

Perspectives on Culture and Diversity

For this blog assignment, there were many people that I could have chosen to give their definition of culture and diversity. However, the three people that I chose are based upon their age, wisdom, and profession. My 81 year old grandmother, who is a former teacher has traveled all around the world with my grandfather, who was apart of the arm services. Mother, as she is called, defined culture is a common practice that a group of people or society. These practices can include language, dress attire, religion, and social interaction. She defined diversity as the differences among society. Diversity can include family size/style, race, age, and religion. The second person who defined culture and diversity was my twin sister LaQuincia. Quincy define culture as group of people who lived, believed, and interacted in similar ways. This group of people may be of the same racial or ethnic back ground, as was as religious background. Diversity is defined as the differences among people, that make them all unique/ The last person I spoke with is of a different racial background, as well as age. My supervisor Wendy defined culture as a group of people with similar practices, beliefs, physical characteristics, and/or religious beliefs. Diversity was defined by Wendy as unique characteristics that distinguish individuals apart from others.

Based upon the definition of culture and diversity, some examples of what has been discussed thus far in this course are culture including including similar practices such as language, race/ethnicity, social interactions. Examples of diversity discussed thus far  are family size/style and age.

Based upon the definitions taken from all three subjects, there does not seem to be an examples that have been omitted.

Hearing how my grandmother, sister, and supervisor perceived culture and diversity made me realize that both terms have broad definitions. Culture and diversity go far beyond race and ethnicity. These terms also made me realize that culture and diversity seem to go hand and hand. Similar characteristics are what make up culture and these same characteristics, in addition to individualized characteristics, are what make us diverse.  

My Family Culture

If I were given the option of bringing 3 personal items with me I would bring a picture of my Great-Grandmother Armathia Cousar Roper, a copy of my maternal grandmothers Bachelor's Degree, and a Bible.

The picture of my great grandmother is sentimental because she raised my twin and I. She is mainly responsible for setting the foundation for my life. She instilled so many values into me. My maternal grandmother's Bachelor degree, from North Carolina A & T University , is important because she was the first person in our family to receive a college education. My grandmother instilled the importance of an education in her children (my mom and her 5 siblings), which my mom instilled in my my twin and me. Education is an important part of our family culture. The Bible signifies  the importance of having a personal relationship with God. Faith is an important part of our family culture as well.

If I were informed that I would have to give up two items I would feel upset, sad, and confused. All three of these items are significant to who I am and a significant part of my family culture. I would not know which items I would give up. I would be hurt and possibly refuse to give them up.

This assignment has allowed me to reflect on what is important in my family and in my life. Without these influences in my life, I honestly do not know where I would be or what type of person I would be. I'm truly grateful!

When I Think of Research

Over the past eight weeks, my perspective on research has broadened. I have learned the meaning of various new terms. the importance of refining of research questions, equity challenges in research, and how research impacts the ECE field. 

My ideas concerning research have changed because I now understand the research does not have to a complex drawn out topics that consist of alot of data. Research in the ECE field can be on a topic such as the importance of play. I also realized that validity is important in ECE research. This can be done through the use of various methods, such as direct observation and interview, or using multiple researchers to interpret data.

I have learned that it is important to follow the research design process. It allows one to determine what will be research, how the research will be conducted, how the topic related to time, place, and people, how the data will be collected and analyzed, determine if there would be a possible set back and test the design by conducting a test pilot.

The only problems I have encountered were time management and specifying a research topic. It wasn't until week 7 that I fully understand how a research topic should be correctly stated. I will be sure to apply all changes to this week’s application.

My perception of ECE professionals has not been altered by this course.


I wish everyone the best in all future courses and professional endeavors. 

Research Around the World

I chose to browse the Early Childhood Australia, which can be accessed at http://www.earlychildhoodaustralia.org.au/.  The following topics have been researched:

-Aggression and young children
-Engaging families (Communication)
-Using digital photographs in ECE settings
-Emotional literacy (feelings/emotions in young children)

I was honestly surprised to find out that the topic of bullying is being research in Australia. I viewed bullying as a major problem in the U.S. because of our culture and the emphasized placed on fitting into the "norm".

I discovered that Australia is in process of changing the child-staff ratio of children under 24 months to 1:4. The changes will take place in 2014. I believe that lowering the child staff ratio will be beneficial to young children. As a former infant room Lead Teacher, I found it some what difficult to give 5 infants or toddlers the individual time that they need.

Uplifting Stories- Research That Benefit Children and Families

My oldest niece, Jakyla, was born in December of 2000. From birth she was a happy, healthy newborn who was very alert. Around 2 months of age, my sister Constance, Jakyla's mom, noticed some unusual jerking movement that Jakyla would experience while she slept. Once Jakyla was taken to her pediatrician it was determined that she was having seizures. Over the next couple of months Jakyla's seizures began to intensify, causing her to be hospitalized many times. Right before her first birthday Jakyla's pediatrician's determined that not only was she experiencing seizures, but that she was physically and mentally delayed. After being taken to specialist in Durham, NC Jakyla was given only a year to live. On this December, Jakyla Amara Patrice Sams will be 12 years old. Although Jakyla was not the direct participant in any research, research that has been conducted on the medicine that she takes has helped her to live 10 years past what doctors predicated. In addition, Jakyla is enrolled in public school and research has been conducted in order to determine the best curriculum needed to aid children who have similar medical, physical, and mental conditions.