Practicum 2 Reflection

Throughout practicum two, I have grown so much as an educator. The courses I have taken alongside my practicum have given me invaluable knowledge to use in my practice. I have gotten comfortable dealing with families by watching Ashley’s interactions. Being a closer at my centre, I must update families on their children’s day. Developing a trusting relationship with these families has been a pleasure, and I am glad they have trusted me throughout my practicum process to provide enriching experiences and quality care to their children. Another thing I have grown in is being intentional with the experiences I provide for children. Our curriculum development course has given me insight into the importance of providing meaningful activities for children, rather than just throwing things onto the table to give them something to do. I still have plenty of work to do, but I began by truly being present with the children to listen to what they are interested in and what they want to know more about. I have demonstrated this process in my tracing the conditions assignment, where my strongest moments were with the coyotes and the footprints. We have continued our interactions and discussions with these things, while also looking deeper into our demigorgans. This has become much easier since the beginning of practicum two as I have deepened my connections with the children. There are a couple of children who take a longer time to become comfortable with people than the rest. I have worked so hard to get these children to feel safe with me, while not pushing so hard that I push them away. Ashley and I have seen tremendous progress recently. One child usually has a difficult time coming in in the mornings and asks for Ashley for comfort. She used to only accept Ashley, though recently she has been asking for me when she comes in which feels like a win! Another way I demonstrated this was with a child when he was having a difficult day managing his big feelings. Although he seemed inconsolable, I stepped in, stayed calm, and asked him what colour my eyes are. It may seem silly, but in a time of overwhelm, it grounded him. I saw his body calm down as he held my hands and looked into my eyes before saying “Brown.” I then asked him to take deep breaths with me, and after this he gave me a big hug before telling me that he just needed some space from his friends. This was a big, memorable moment for me. It was where my relationship with this child finally began as I was able to share my calm with him. Overall, I have become more confident, built strong and trusting relationships with children and families, and really dove into the significance of the activities I provide. I am grateful to be placed at All Aboard, and I look forward to seeing what practicum three has in store.