Family centered child care has positive and rewarding effects on a child. The child is bound to be more alert and as ready to absorb as a sponge. It is surrounded by positive vibes and people who understand and respect its contexts like culture, ethnicity, economic level, and family structure. Family centered child care ensures there are professionals and parents, who are willing to help the child around its environment.
From the reading, the following are the concepts/theories I value the most:
1. Each child must be looked at in context of the family/community it comes from.
2. Bronfenbrenner’s Ecological Model which states various factors in different layers like – Microsystem to Macrosystem which directly or indirectly have an effect on the way a child reacts.
3. Family is an integral part of a child’s life and if included in the child care, it has rewarding benefits.
4. Parents are the first teachers to the child and gaining their understanding helps children develop strong social relationships effectively.
5. According to Abraham Maslow’s theory – If the basic needs of the children are taken care of, they are more willing to learn and have an enthusiastic outlook.
6. “Collaborative Approach” – this is explained as a system where the change occurs within the program to personalize the program and meet individual needs.
I volunteer at the child development center at East Los Angeles College(ELAC) and have seen family centered child care concepts in practice. I have learnt a lot from Martha (teacher) observing her approach towards children. The following two examples illustrate the family centered approach at ELAC:
1. Each time a child makes a mistake, it is addressed immediately using a family centered approach. The solution is always provided in the form of a question, which compels the child to think such as “Would we do this at home?”, or “Do we want our family to get hurt?” In a learning environment, children react to...