Impacts on Early Emotional Development

The area of the world that I chose is the Latin America and Carribean; Barbados.  The reason that I chose this area is because of the need to implement a positive discipline plan in schools.  The challenges that children face are corporal punishment, which have led to some children becoming troubled and distant.  Corporal punishment can affect children by confusing love with pain; it increases anxiety and fear, makes children angry in response, as well as decreases self-esteem. 

I have learned that corporal punishment affects children emotional well being and development in many ways. UNICEF-sponsored workshop helps to implement alternate parenting strategies; it provides strategies instead of just punishing bad behavior this approach, clearly defines expectations and what constitutes good behavior; making it easier for children to behave well. I have learned that it is important that I encourage parents that other means of discipline can work instead of corporal punishment.

References

UNICEF (2011). Retrieved from: http://www.unicef.org/infobycountry/index.html

The Sexualization of Early Childhood

I think that the ideas shared in this reading is disturbing. I think that parents should monitor what children are watching on television as well as on the computers.  I know that it is hard to keep children from the exposure of sexualization but it is important that we as parents and professionals do our part to make sure that children understand what is appropriate and what is not appropriate. I experienced watching sexualization for young children in a video game where there was a naked female woman as part of the game.  Some children model famous people using the terms that they are sexy just like their favorite artist. I feel that some children may only feel like they are sexy if they are wearing inappropriate clothing. There are young children as early as preschool that are caught kissing imitating what they have seen. Adults must keep close watch on young children to monitor what they are learning from the media when it comes to sexualization. I will provide resources for parents to make sure they are monitoring their children as well as make sure they are aware of who their children are spending time with and if they are role models for their children.

Evaluating Impacts on Professional Practice

It is important for me as a future teacher to provide effective strategies that will address the various isms.  I am reflecting on ableism. There are many people who are discriminated against because of their disabilities. It is important for teachers to dispel the stereotypes about children with disabilities.

As I work into the school system I have heard many stereotypes about children with disabilities such as "These children can't learn."  These comments sadly, are commented by adults as well as children.  Children who are disabled may believe this and feel powerless. As a professional it is important for me to dispel this stereotype and help children learn to their fullest potentials.  I intend to post pictures of famous people who are disabled as well as read books about achieving your dreams.