I know we've only met in class a few times so far this semester, but I already feel like I've gotten so much out of it. Especially with my new job as a preschool teacher, I feel like I can apply almost everything discussed in class. I still haven't been able to read the text yet (as it is in the mail and should be arriving tomorrow), but the PowerPoints and discussions in class have been awesome. While discussing Chapter 1, it really hit me how much a teacher can effect a young students life. This has made me so much more aware of what I say to the kids at my work and how I treat them. Even though most of them are only 4 years old, respect is a huge factor. In order to get respect from them, I need to show them respect in return. A teacher really can be so influential in a child's life, either for good or for bad. I never want to be a teacher who influences for the bad. I've had negative experiences in Public Education growing up and I want to make sure I can be there to help kids feel secure and confident.
The Non-verbal Communication lesson was really impressive to me. I immediately understood the importance of helping a child feel loved, without saying those exact words. You can say so many things without speaking a word. I've found that it's usually when people aren't verbalizing that they can cause such an effect on those around them. At my daycare I have really been trying to make sure I am attentive to their needs, and listening to them. I've noticed the kids really listen to me more, the more I listen to them. It's hard to provide so much attention and care to so many children in one class, but I'm learning every day. The more I learn about children and about how they learn, it becomes easier and more enjoyable to work with them.
