Reflective Practice for Early Childhood Professionals: A Daily Checklist
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Buzzwords Explained
Breaking Down Common Terms in the Early Childhood Field
Jargon is out. Simple and succinct explanations are in.
In this series, ZERO TO THREE’s subject matter experts tackle common terms and topics in the early childhood field.
Reflective Practice
Reflective practice fosters responsivity versus reactivity. It’s a tool that invites us to pause and slow down to become aware of thoughts, feelings and reactions that arise in everyday interactions.
Equity
At its core, equity in early childhood means that children in any space have the same opportunities regardless of their race, location, physical or mental abilities, income or background.
Child Trauma
Strong relationships with caregivers and a safe environment help young children learn to trust the world. Early traumatic events — called adverse childhood experiences or ACEs — can have the opposite effect.
Compassion Fatigue
Early childhood professionals care deeply and work tirelessly to help the children and families they work with. That’s why their role is so critical, but it’s also why they are at risk of developing of compassion fatigue.
Trauma-Informed Care
Trauma-informed care gives kids security. Whether in classroom or clinical settings, the more we support children who have had traumatic experiences, the better their chance of thriving.
Play-Based Learning
Playful exploration is a natural way of learning. When babies and toddlers get more chances to use their natural skills through play-based learning activities, they tend to stay engaged and creative learners even as they grow up.
Perinatal Mental Health
Because babies and toddlers grow up in the context of relationships, the mental health of their parents and caregivers is inextricably linked to a baby’s development during these critical early years.
Gentle Parenting
Gentle parenting does not mean allowing a child to do whatever they want. It is approaching challenging behaviors in a gentle, steady way that doesn’t fuel further distress.
Dyadic Care
Dyadic care means caring for both babies and their caregivers as a whole. It is responsive to a family’s unique needs, taking into account their cultural preferences, family structure, and resources.
Distillation
What does trauma do to a baby’s brain?
Trauma can greatly impact the developing and vulnerable minds of young children aged 0-3. However, the impact of trauma can vary depending on some key factors.
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Parenting for Social Justice
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Distillation
What do mental health issues in young children look like?
Babies and toddlers can and do suffer from mental health problems caused by trauma, neglect, biological factors, or environmental situations.
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Distillation
Understanding Brain Development in Babies and Toddlers
The first three years of life are a critical period in development. Read more about understanding brain development in babies and toddlers.
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Three Building Blocks of Reflective Supervision
Reflective supervision promotes and supports the development of a relationship-based organization.
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