PARENT EDUCATION - TODDLERS Program-Level Learning Outcomes “What do they need to be able to do “out there” that we are responsible for “in here”? The Team: Betty Williams, Elizabeth Crary, Beth Goss, Deborah Woolley Updated by Betty Williams, 1/16/07; Val Donato, 2/25/07 Step 1: Identify specific workplace knowledge, skills, attitudes Model and demonstrate appropriate problem – solving Understand the developmental appropriateness of turn–taking as sharing Use reflective listening Set limits on inappropriate behavior & hold firm Know a number of strategies for preventing and coping with tantrums Intervene appropriately when child hits, shoves or bites another View anger/rage and egocentrism as normal for developmental stage Use strategies to help children express and manage emotions (self-calming) Demonstrate ability to facilitate and play in an interest area Show ability to remain calm and confident when handling tantrums/acting out behaviors Articulate and recognize a full range of human emotions Tolerate separation from child Understand value of child-directed & other kinds of play Involve toddlers in home life, family life and help around home Play following a child’s lead Understand traits of this developmental stage Have an increased range of ideas for at-home activities with toddlers (play, art, music, etc.) Understand language development & necessity of lots of talk Are able and willing to interact with other people’s children Know the importance of child-centered learning as opposed to adult-centered. Accept diversity in sleeping arrangements Understand signs of readiness for potty training Understand how to avoid power struggles around bed time, toileting, eating, etc. Understand nutritional needs of toddlers Understand health & safety needs of toddlers Develop more self-confidence as a parent Develop an attitude of respect for diversity and know how to support same attitude in children Understand the changes in family dynamics upon the transition to parenthood Know about resources in community and how to access them as needed Know the importance of self-care and are willing to advocate in family for this Step 2: Develop “robust” learning outcomes from the specific knowledge, skills and attitudes Parenting/Guidance Skills: Theme 2 Learn and practice parenting techniques/styles that acknowledge individual child’s temperament and age appropriate developmental needs. Use a variety of age-appropriate, culturally sensitive strategies for child guidance with individual children and groups Remain calm and firm in setting limits Are aware of what is involved in the development of emotional competence (of adult and children), and how to foster it. Child Development: 1 Are knowledgeable about developmental stages and temperamental differences of toddlers, understands how these factors manifest in toddler behavior, and are able to support their development. Are aware of a variety of approaches to supporting toddlers’ health & safety issues (sleep, eating, toileting) and are able to implement approaches that suit family needs and values. Parent Care: Are aware of the emotional and physical toll of parenting a toddler and are able to implement strategies of appropriate self-care. 3 Demonstrate empathy for each parent’s role in the family, knowing that working outside the home and in the home has its stresses Listen to all students empathetically Exhibit an anti-bias approach Recognize and respond effectively to diversity in: o Ethnicity o Race o Age o Sexual orientation o Gender o Communication styles and manners, and learning styles Listen and respond appropriately to individual and cultural differences in approaches to parenting and parenting techniques Have a support network Select and practice discipline techniques from student’s belief system Identify both personal and family values Understand different temperaments and how to support them for healthy development Understand the impact of culture on development Arrive on time Demonstrate organizational skills (making decisions) and leadership skills Take responsibility for individual job Demonstrate emotional intelligence Use technology appropriately: information, listservs, and email etiquette Demonstrate skills in observation of other adults working with children Apply and use parenting /teaching information Model appropriate behavior when working with children in a group Advocate for children, parents, cooperative preschools Work effectively in groups Work with advisor Recognize current adult developmental stage Run a small business Consult with teacher Work collaboratively Board: employer, tenant, assistant teacher Quality program: how to recognize and evaluate Family and Culture: Exhibit an understanding of individual differences, temperaments, and cultural/family variations. Respond appropriately to individual and cultural differences in approaches to parenting and parenting techniques Demonstrate understanding of and sensitivity to diverse familial and cultural perspectives on child development Working Knowledge: Exhibit competency in the role of assistant teacher. Exhibit group process: Board, collaborative leadership, and group dynamics Adult Interaction: 2 Interact effectively with other adults in ways that support relationships and contribute to family and a group’s shared goals. 3