Observing Communication

My observation was a video of Quality Interactions Early Years at Carterhatch Infant School. I have learn that you must let the child lead the learning. If the child lead the learning, then he or she is more motivated to learn. The teacher stressed the importance of getting to know the child and the family. The children are observed in the center by learning the child's background and interest. The teacher will know the child by letting the child lead the interactions, explaining concepts, encouraging children to think, and to listen to what the child is interested in. When children are provided safety, the child confidence will grow, and the child will be encourage to think on their own.

The teachers were using learning journals to write down the wow moments when the child do something on their own the first time. In doing a task the teachers would stand back watch, listen and let the child struggle. The teacher would step in to help the child only when the child could not complete the task. In the video there were no use of persona dolls, I think that these persona dolls could have been used because "Persona dolls are a powerful tool which helps young children solve problems and communicate complex thoughts, situations, and feelings." (Laureate Education, Inc, 2011."

I have learned from this observation is to let the child lead. I must learn to speak to the child on the child's level and not on an adult's level. I must get to know the child's strengths and weaknesses. I must find out what the child's interest are, and I must trust in the child and watch, listen, and let them struggle before I come to their aid. There will be adult child interaction where I will lead the instructions. The child should lead the learning because then the child will be more motivated to learn. You must work as a team with your colleagues by being positive and supportive.

Reference:
Laureate Education, Inc. (Producer). (2011). Persona dolls [DVD]. Strategies for working with diverse children. Baltimore, MD: Author.