Week 1: My first week of practicum was all focused on building relationships and trust with the children and getting to know other educators including my mentors. The first week went smoothly but I did find it harder to build relationships with the infant toddler program than 3-5 years old. Younger children were opening up slower to me. But, I took the opportunity to get to know them by feeding, freetime, outdoor, and nap time. I was able to adapt to Kiddies Korner’s routine pretty fast and was able to act out as one of the team.
Week 2: This week was when I challenged myself to engage with children in meaningful ways. We went out on a walk couple times a week and I took advantage to build relationships with the children that I feel as not as close to me. I was able to put A child to sleep, which was one of the child that has a hard time opening up to me. My efforts on building relationships with her paid off when I was able to put her to sleep because it shows she trust me with her.
Week 1-2 feedbacks
Week 3: I was able to work in the program like an educator. I did daily duties and was able to go more on a walk to the field or the arena with the children. I took this opportunity to really play with children and build connections and relationships with the children. After, knowing I have more trust in them. I was able to correct behaviour problems around the children. Knowing that I am also one of the educator that will guide them if they are not doing well.
Week 4: This week is when I have been observing children that are very much interested with trees and their vocabulary with spiders and bugs. I have put my pedagogical commitment to support the children interests and exploring that. During my time at practicum, I have learned different ways to do circle time and in all honesty. I am still improving my skills with keeping children engaged in my circle time. With infant toddlers world, they have lesser attention span so it was something I had to keep in mind when planning what to do during circle time.