If given the opportunity to operate a family child care home I would begin by ensuing that the environment feels like a home to everyone. I envision the space of the child care being in my basement with entry from the side door. I would like to make sure the entry is accessible for persons with disabilities. I would create a warm open environment that is colorful and bright. The room would have windows to provide plenty of natural light. There would be decorative curtains hanging on the windows. I would ensure that there was a bathroom and kitchen are close to the main learning room. The bathroom would have adequate toileting fixtures for young children. I would also like to have a laundry space near the other rooms that are used for child care. I would have a storage unit which holds extra supplies, pampers, clothes and any other necessary items. It would also hold cots for the children to rest on at nap time. There would be near by access to the back yard, which would have out door activities for the children. There would be trees and table/chairs in this space. The table and chairs would be used for snack and meals eaten out doors when the weather is appropriate.
I enjoy bright colors and feel that they represent happiness. The walls of the class rooms would reflect this. The images in the main room would be pictures of diverse families. I would also include images that reflect learning and nature. I like the idea of showing care for nature and environment. I would incorporate many learning tools and activities for the children to utilize. These such items would include books, puzzles, building activities, art supplies, music, home living supplies and more. In the yard I would like to have out door equipment such as bikes/scooters/helmets, gym equipment, and a yard size playground. The toys, materials, and equipment that is placed out for children all influence what children learn (Derman-Sparks & Olsen Edwards, 2010).
As an anti bias educator I need to be aware of the materials I select for the classroom, ensuring that each child in the program feels socially and culturally secure and respected. The environment must be culturally consistent for the children and families it currently serves (Derman-Sparks & Olsen Edwards, 2010).
I would welcome new families by familiarizing them with the set up of the environment. I would discuss daily schedule and activities as well as parent involvement. I would ask parents to inform me of their child's preferences and dislikes. I would discuss their family descriptions, and the families needs and expectations of their experience. Would also would include a communication board that is utilized by the parents, and individual binders which reflect children s development and progression just as Adriana Castillo in “Welcome to an Anti-Bias Learning Community” . (Laureate education, 2012).
Derman-Sparks, L., & Olsen Edwards, J. (2010). Anti-bias education for young children and ourselves. Washington, D.C.: National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC).
Derman-Sparks, L., & Olsen Edwards, J. (2010). Anti-bias education for young children and ourselves. Washington, D.C.: National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC).
Laureate Education, Inc. (2012). Video: “Building on Children’s Strengths” (approximate length: 16 minutes) Retrieved from: http://sylvan.live.ecollege.com/ec/crs/default.learn?CourseID=6488776&Survey=1&47=8125722&ClientNodeID=984650&coursenav=1&bhcp=1
