Reflective Analysis of Portfolio Artifact

Rationale/Reflection
NAEYC Standard:
STANDARD 1. PROMOTING CHILD DEVELOPMENT AND LEARNING Candidates
prepared in early childhood degree programs are grounded in a child development knowledge
base. They use their understanding of a) young childrens characteristics and needs, and b)
multiple interacting influences on childrens development and learning, to c) create environments
that are healthy, respectful, supportive, and challenging for each child (NAEYC, 2010).

Brief Description of Evidence:

As part of my ECED 225 Infant and Toddler Practicum course in the fall semester of
2014, I worked in a childcare setting to complete a child case study. This study was based on one
specific child. In order to complete this study I had to work with my mentor and professionally
complete observations, assessments, and take pictures of the child. During this project I also had
to work with the childs parent to come up with goals for the childs development in different
areas.

Analysis of What I Learned:

I have learned from completing this case study how to work collaboratively with a child
care professional and parents to assess, work on, and conclude a childs development. I had to
use my observation and documenting skills through anecdotal notes, assessments, and parent
communication. I conducted myself as an early childhood professional in order to make
informed decisions as I set goals, worked towards those goals, and reflected on the
developmental progress of the particular child.

How This Artifact Demonstrates my Competence on the

NAEYC Standard:
My competence is demonstrated in this area by my understanding of child development
and my knowledge of young childrens characteristics and needs. Through this case study I
created a portfolio over one child. I had to observe the child in a childcare setting and assess her
development. There are multiple influences that impact a childs life and as an educator I realize
that the environment I provide for that child must be healthy, respectful, supportive, and
challenging. I ensure this type of environment by encouraging each child to fulfill their entire
potential. To accommodate the childs learning I assessed how the she learned then according to
her assessment I came up with activities that would best suit her. According to Piaget children
develop an understanding of the world around them, and then notice differences between what
they know and what they discover in their environment. I support Piagets theory in my
classroom by always keeping learning exciting and different.