Goals:
- Get to know each child deeply and build secure attachments
- Gain confidence in my guidance skills with 0-3
- Learn how to work well and integrate myself into the Marigolds staff team
- Create a pedagogical documentation that can live on after I leave
Weekly Practicum Journal: Below is a brief overview of each week in my Infant toddler practicum to give insight into what I am learning!
Week one:
During my first week, I spent time learning the Marigold program’s flows. I worked on building relationships with the children and staff team. I observed the children to get a sense of each child therefore going forward I will be able to connect with them.
Week two:
In week two, I felt more confident when guiding children, as I felt that for most children, I have enough of a relationship to do so. I also took more opportunities to lead different things like a snack table, lunch table, group time, and dressing a group for outdoors. Nearing the end of the week, I had my first toileting attempt, which I felt went well however, it is something that I feel the least confident in.
Week three:
This week I worked the 8 – 3:30 shift. Every shift is dedicated to different tasks, therefore this shift is “baby duty”. Meaning, that while our 7-month-old Hudson was in our care, I was one-to-one with him. This was a great opportunity for me to expand my skills and to immerse myself into the Hudsons routine. This was by far the most challenging week for me, however, I am grateful I had this opportunity to learn how to care for such young children.
Week four – five:
Weeks four to five is where my greatest learnings occurred. I felt like I flourished in these weeks and was truly immersed in the program. I was treated with respect and as I was a part of the team. My mentor pushed me to bring my ideas forth and try new things with this group of children. I took the lead on many walks, got a lot of experience during meal times, and was in the nap room every day with different children. I gained confidence in toileting and essentially everything within the Marigold room. Each week I took over a shift and slipped into that person’s role, while they shadowed me. This helped me in my growth and confidence as it allowed me to take the lead, while also having the support of another educator with me.