EDUC 210

 Grace Singley 

Dr. DesJardin 

EDUC 210

8 October, 2021

Week 1: Building Relationships

I had the incredible opportunity to begin my field experience at Bonaventure Academy in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. Prior to starting at this center, I had experience working in a child care center from my hometown. However, I was very excited to be in a new environment and see how things work in a different setting. I was pleasantly surprised to see how the program at Bonaventure works. I arrived in the morning where I observed, played and hung out with young toddlers. While there, I experienced child drop offs. It was a time where I not only met parents, but I was able to see how the child, parent and teacher all had a part in this process. For little ones, adjusting can be hard especially if the child comes wrapped around mom or dad. I noticed some parents struggling to leave their child and some children struggling to leave their parents. However, the teachers part I observed most because the actions I witnessed are ones I would hope to one day put into practice. The teacher began by welcoming the parent and child. Then, after allowing the parent to settle in and unpack the childs bag, the teacher would ask follow up questions about how the child is doing or if there is any new information that they would need to know. This is important because it ensures that the teacher is up to date with everything about the child. Then if the teacher noticed the parent or child struggling to leave, she would offer assistance. Whether that be to try and take the child into her open arms or ask if the parent would like more space. The teacher I was observing, Ms. Becca said that this was a common routine in

all the rooms and a good routine to get used to. For any concerns or help needed from parents, they are either helped by their child's teacher or encouraged to speak to Kim Stehlik who runs Bonaventure academy and is always available to support families, parents, and children whenever need be. It was truly an honor to start my field experience here and I am very grateful and excited to continue doing so!