When reflecting on Early childhood studies I think about the development of the child. How a child develops holistically from birth to the later stages in their life. Each child is unique and I have learnt that in my practice as a nursery nurse, how important it is to remember this.  “Every child is a unique child, who is constantly learning and can be resilient, capable, confident and self-assured’’ (Early Years Matters:2017) I enjoy working with children and am particularly interested in continuing learning in this field. I find it fascinating to read about how a child’s brain develops from birth and thereafter the different stages of development a baby/child will go through. “The development of the brain begins in the first few weeks after conception….The neural tube continues to change, eventually becoming the brain and spinal cord. About seven weeks after conception the first neurons and synapses begin to develop in the spinal cord.’’ (The Urban Child Institute: 2017)

The mother/parent child interaction is very significant at the start of a baby’s /child’s life and this crucial relationship impacts on the baby’s development holistically, .e.g. a child’s self esteem or perception of the world. Early childhood studies explores the needs and experiences of children. As a qualified nursery nurse I have worked in the  public sector .e.g. children centre’s, schools, private sector. Where I have learnt that when overseeing a child provides you with a clearer understanding of a child’s strengths and weaknesses, including getting to know a lot about a child’s like and dislikes. There are many theories that talk about early childhood studies and look on the different ways children learn. For example, Skinner talks about how important it is for the child’s mother/parent/carer, to praise a child when showing positive behaviour.

I have chosen to embark on a degree to develop within my career and to enhance my own personal understanding of child development and increase my knowledge as part of my professional development. I have spent the last two years practising as a nursery nurse and I now feel it is time to embark on the next stage of my own professional development within early childhood studies. On my journey as a nursery nurse, I have worked with children from various backgrounds and I have found it particularly interesting working with children, who have either experienced domestic violence or are experiencing difficulty with learning. I have worked in a supporting role alongside a speech and language therapist, to deliver small group work to children experiencing speech and language delays. Through this opportunity I have learnt the value of observing, waiting and listening (OWL) following a child’s lead and adapting my interaction to meet that child at his/her level. Looking at a child holistically, waiting to see what the child does next then listening to the child on what they have to say.

I have a personal desire as a human being to do my best to work towards creating better opportunities, for children in need. For that reason, the passion within me to  continue to  learn, to develop and grow professionally, is something I look forward to and feel that this degree provides me with this.