Final Post

In order to truly understand the issues and trends of early childhood, it is immensely important to take a look from outside of our own personal lens. When we reach out to international contacts and learn about international organizations, only then can our horizons be broadened. Through this course, I was able to immerse myself in the plight of collecting research and data to benefit the early childhood field internationally with the International Step by Step Association (ISSA). I was able to learn about the importance of having statistical facts in order for law and policymakers to hold any form of voice in the advocacy roles. It is is also important for members of the EC field to take into account the need for collective data so that others may draw upon studies and findings to help the children and families they serve.

Through the past 8 weeks, I was also able to connect with an old professor who is now in the same line of profession I am, only a few thousand miles apart in Germany. Through this contact, I was able to get actual quotes and opinions on issues and trends that EC members are facing there. It was also an amazing chance to be connect with students from Germany as I was able to set up a pen-pal program with my Kinder students and Charlotte's Kinder students. Through my connection, I hope that my students will have made a connection that will last a lifetime.

It is so important to continuously research and collect resources regarding the issues and trends of EC. Especially as members who have chosen to further our education, we have made a commitment to ourselves and to our field that we will be advocates for those who cannot. It is my professional goal to be an advocate for the students that enter my classroom, and for those in my community. With this start, perhaps one day I can play a role as an advocate for Charlotte's students or others around the globe.