Over the past eight weeks I have enjoyed listening to pod casts, exploring websites dedicated to improvement of global early childhood education, and learning of international practices, reformation and advancement of early learning. Though I was not fortunate to have connected with an international early childhood professional, I feel the information I have gained has opened my mind and expanded my knowledge of international educational experiences. I am pleased to learn of the efforts of organizations such as the Global Childcare Initiative and UNESCO, who are working with nations on developing systems according to researched best practices, where otherwise early education programs would not exist. The information that I have acquired from these such organizations I can apply to early education practices in my own professional career.
Realizing that some indigenous groups have little opportunity and accessibility to early childhood programs has enhanced my desire to advocate for children and families and help others in my community gain opportunity for early education.
Importantly, all of the programs that I researched in other nations place value in conservation and awareness of culture and back ground. This is something that I was before aware of but now can associate internationally as well. For example, in my last blog I discussed the Loipi people of Kenya and ways their early childhood program recognizes and respects cultural traditions.
Finally I will explore collaborative opportunities in early education with programs and organizations who I can continue to learn from and continue to expand my knowledge and awareness of practices and resources in the field.
