Stop and Reflect
Review the information on the government websites and select two early childhood curricula to compare. Apply the process described in Table 2.7. Which of the two do you think you would prefer? Why?
Part of this work centers on knowing yourself, your core beliefs about children, your image of yourself as a teacher, the details of the curriculum, and how to teach to your natural strengths. Part of it is related to your preparation and knowledge base. And some of it relates to the assumptions and internalized values you bring to this particular school and classroom. How much do you identify with the children you will be teaching? How do you feel about second-language learners? Will you be comfortable talking with parents and your program or school administrator? This last section of the chapter will describe and encourage you to use reflective strategies to uncover the answers to these questions.