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, of multiple interacting
influences on childrens development, and create environments that are healthy, respectful, supportive, and
challenging for each child. (NAEYC, 2010)

Brief Description of Evidence:

During my spring semester of 2014 in my ECED 235-Early Childhood Practicum course, I went to a
childcare center to do a case study. While there I took several photos throughout the semester. I did some
observations and assessments, while working with the family in setting developmentally appropriate goals for
the child. In doing so I learned about the culture and the characteristics of the child. I got a chance to see the
social, physical, emotional, and cognitive development as well language over a sixteen week period. Once I
observed the strengths, the family and I came up with a plan to challenge the child in different areas while
setting goals.

Analysis of What I Learned:

Through the completion of this case study I learned through assessments and observations how
children developed over time. I acquired knowledge about the four main focuses. I learned that through social
emotional development the child learns to share and problem solve, while getting along with others. In the
area of gross/motor development I learned as the child moved physically he became more active. Cognitive
development allows the child to think critically. During language development I observed how the childs
vocabulary began to expand and more questions were asked by the child. I provided the child with materials
that had multiple uses to expand his creativity. Most of the materials were inexpensive household items and
food. To keep the communication lines open between the family and myself we meet once a week. I built a
very good relationship with mom so she gave me permission to call her, even during school hours. If I had any
questions or concerns regarding her son, this helped to create a positive environment for her child.

How This Artifact Demonstrates my Competence on the NAEYC Standard:

I am knowledgeable in this standard because I understand the importance of a childs development
through spending time and one- on- one interaction. Making sure that the family is included in the decision
making of all aspects of development of their child. Vygotsky believed that children learn best through hands
on experience with their parents, families, caretakers, peers, and the culture in which they live. This case study
assignment helps to promote the development of the child through the four main areas of early childhood.