1. Wei Zhang
Philosophy Statement
Relationships
As an ECE, what I value most are the relationships that I build — not only with
children but, with parents, families, colleagues, and the community. Together, we are what
makes a classroom. We all take part in building an environment where children can thrive
and reach their highest potentials. I use the Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice
(2011) as a guide, which states that ECEs strive to build caring and nurturing relationships
that support learning (Standard I). ECEs are aware of maintaining clear and appropriate
boundaries in professional relationships (Standard V). I will also respect the privacy of
children and their families in terms of what standard VI emphasized. I will not disclose any
information of children and their families without consent.
Pedagogy and Curriculum
I believe that children learn when we provide them the opportunities to satisfy their
curiosity. The best way to achieve this is through play. Children need to be able to explore,
manipulate, and take risks. With our care, nurture, guidance, and support, children can have
endless opportunities to develop a variety of skills. By providing them these kinds of
opportunities, their experiences become more meaningful which is when learning happens
the most.
By planning developmentally appropriate curriculum based on the understanding of
child development and the consideration of children’s interests, children become more
engaged in what they are doing and therefore become more eager to learn (Standard II, IV).
Positive modeling is the most appropriate way to educate young children (Standard
III). They are natural observers and learn many things through observation, both direct and
indirect. Young children also learn through imitation, which is why modeling is key when it
comes to teaching children.
My goal is for children to develop an intrinsic motivation and a love for learning. The
ideal program is set up where educators, parents/families, and community all assist in
inspiring children to keep learning — socially, emotionally, physically, and cognitively.
Documentation
Observations play a big role in planning and documentation. We are able to gain
knowledge about children such as their needs and abilities through observations. We then
base all our planning according to their needs, while considering the children’s interests.
Documentations consist of photographs and reflections may highlight children’s skills and
experiences. This is a great way of celebrating children’s accomplishments and successes.
Documentation can be used as a communication tool for parents/families as well.
Reflective Practice
I believe that reflective practice is vital for ECEs to keep updated. Reflective practice
can be conducted via different ways individually or in groups, for example, writing notes,
having a reflective dialogue with co-workers, joining in a professional social media group
(blog/twitter/online communities), continuing academic study, and reading published works
(article/book/conference).