How have you grown as a teacher from this experience so far (skills, understanding, or knowledge gained) (lesson planning, classroom management, demonstrations, etc…)?
I was pushed out of my comfort zone and challenged a lot. I never worked with a group of toddlers until I started this internship. I never used to be one that was comfortable with singing, dancing, and dramatic play and when I was told to include some dramatic play and singing in my lessons I freaked out. During my lesson I noticed the children were more into my lesson when I was more into it. I realized that it didn’t matter if I looked a little silly or if I didn’t have the best singing voice. I have become more confident in my abilities as a teacher and have become more aware of the importance of a wide variety of types of activities in my lessons.
What new understandings do you have about children/education/your role in the classroom?
Like I mentioned previously, I understand the importance of a variety of types of lessons. Without a variety of lessons the children will get bored. Some children learn best through song and dance and as a teacher I will have to ensure that I am able to give them that opportunity to learn best whether it is supplying them with a variety of toys during playtime or providing them with different lessons. I also understand the importance of a routine. It amazed me that when we started cleaning up in the one year old room for circle time, some of the toddlers would sit on the rug by themselves and just know what would happen next. A routine makes transitions a million times easier.
Has this experience made you more confident as a teacher? What made you happy about teaching this semester? Are you finding joy in this experience? (describe/explain)
I have loved that this experience has made me more confident as a teacher. I was surrounded by not only people that were around my experience level, but also people who are extremely experienced and could give me advice. I loved making a connection with these children and seeing the happiness as I walked into the room. I love that through this experience I grew as a teacher and I got more experience working with children.