Safety is one of the central aspects to consider in early childhood as the learners are rather vulnerable. Before my clinical experience, I had certain views on the issue that were based on my own academic experience and my relatives’ experiences. However, my observations and the interview with the teacher, Ms. Jones, helped me gain valuable insights and enrich my knowledge as well. My interviewee has considerable working experience and notes that safety is one of her priorities when providing services to little learners. She states that she has had classes with approximately fifteen students, which is consistent with the existing standards. The interviewee mentioned that educators could hardly manage a class with over twenty students. I agree with this viewpoint, and I also think that assistants may be needed for classes with more than 15 students, especially when special education learners are in the class. The benefits of this approach are evident in a video featuring a class where the teacher is aided during different activities (Candace Ledbetter, 2015). During my clinical experience, we had 12 students; and it seemed rather demanding but manageable for me.
Ms. Jones also added that the facility had sound policies and continuous staff training incentives that help educators to maintain a safe environment and learning process. I believe the interview successfully manages safety issues as the facility is safe, and children are protected. Of course, some games and activities can be potentially hazardous since the students can fall and hurt each other. For instance, the video by OurSaviorMarlette (2016) features playtime, and I find an episode with the girl dressed up potentially risky. She or her peers can step on her scarf or gown and the girl can be hurt. Luckily, during my clinical experience, the risks remained quite low and there were no safety issues. As to teacher training, the interviewee mentioned that it is held on a regular basis. She also made a joke that she feels she knows safety rules better than some basic academic rules. I believe this approach is beneficial as in case of emergency, educators may react properly only when they are well-trained. The students I observed did not have naps, but I still discussed possible safety issues, and the highest risk seen by the interview is now related to the pandemic.
I could observe the safe use of technology, and Ms. Jones shared some of her concerns and real-life situations. She mentioned that one of her colleagues had an emergency with her equipment (there was some minor electricity issue), and after that, the entire staff was trained to respond to such cases. I would like to note that technology is becoming increasingly important in early childhood education. In the video by SiouxFallsSchools (2016), the teacher utilizes technology during a reading lesson, which enhances learners’ motivation. We had some hours of home learning experience and school-based learning. Children watched some videos regarding the safe utilization of technology, which is important for home and class-based learning.
Finally, it is necessary to consider some ideas concerning the measures that can be undertaken to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Regular circles are often characterized by a close contact of learners, which is unacceptably risky under present circumstances (Autumn Grinstead, 2017; Oakhill Day School, 2016). As a solution, circles can be held outdoors, and the learners will keep the necessary distance, so safety issues can be effectively addressed. The work in small groups can also be carried out outdoors, but when it is impossible, the distance should be enlarged (Shavelaney Dorsett, 2013). The book shields used to avoid cheating in the video by Cindy Venckus (2013) can become anti-COVID shields as well.
In conclusion, educators address safety concerns in different ways, but they all comply with the existing standards. I find these standards effective and helpful, so I intend to follow the guidelines in my practice. The interview provided me with insights and made me think of some aspects. COVID-related issues are shaping the ways early childhood education takes place, and technology is playing an important role in this process.
References
Autumn Grinstead. (2017). Mrs. G’s first grade morning meeting- hit the floor [Video file].
Candace Ledbetter. (2015). SPE 551 observation 2 [Video file].
Cindy Venckus. (2013). Early Education Enrichment one hour class observation [Video file].
Oakhill Day School. (2016). Toddler time [Video file]. Web.
OurSaviorMarlette. (2016). Pettigrew kindergarten Lucy Calkins reading lesson[Video file].
Shavelaney Dorsett. (2013). The reader’s workshop: Kindergarten guided reading lesson- early starts reading! [Video file].
SiouxFallsSchools. (2016). Mrs Kilmer’s 4yr old class playtime [Video file].