Creating Affirming Environments

If I had my own Family Child Care Home, I would make sure it is a true “home” for children. Everyone wants to be at a place that is loving and caring. For young children it is extremely hard from them to leave their parents and their home because that is the place where they know they are safe. I want the environment to be inviting and warm. I want bright colors and furniture made specifically for children. I want signs in all languages. I would have posters, pictures and art work presenting different cultures and themes. I want to match all of the cultures of the children in the home and even some that are not. I want play areas where the children can use their imagination and explore. I want educational toys, as well as toys for the children to just have fun. I also want the children to be exposed to technology.

 I would have a positive faculty who are willing to go beyond to reach every child that comes in contact with our program. If possible it would be great to work with a diverse faculty so families could see a face that resembles their own. The faculty would not be a team but more like a family. The possibilities are amazing when people work together. I now understand the best way to get results are by working as a team.

As a family, I would like to develop a rich curriculum. I think it is important to cover the basics but I think it is also important to expose children to different cultures and traditions. I want there to be time for Math, Reading, English, History, Science, Social Studies, Art, Music, Computers and Athletics. I also think it is important to have free time and of course nap time. As well, every month I would like one child to bring something from their family. I would like to focus on that particular culture for that month. I think when children realize something is real and see an actual person in front of them I feel people are more eager to learn.

  I would have an age limit, infants to children up to four years old. I think it is important that children be around others their own age so they can relate, explore and uncover new situations together. If possibly I would love to have a diverse group of children. I think the best way to learn about people who are different is by being exposed to diversity at a young age. Lastly, I want to encourage parents to be involved and join in when time permits.

Reference:
Derman-Sparks, L., & Edwards, J. O. (2010).Anti-bias education for young children and ourselves. Washington, DC: National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC)