The second educational standard created by the National Assocation for the Education of Young Children addresses the need for “building family and community relationships”.  This is perhaps the most important job of an early childhood educator, as most of the influences impacting children’s development come from the family and home.  Teachers must not jump to conclusions about children’s behavior in the classroom.  In many cases, the inappropriate actions are tolerated at home and need to be stopped there if behavior at school is to improve.  Classrooms must also respect family diversity by openly incorporating traditions from around the world into the design and daily activities.  Part of this respect comes when all families are actively involved in the school community by way of meetings and events that are accessible to all.

For this assignment, I researched and gathered information about a wide variety of appropriate resources in my community.  I became more familiar with what Ithaca has to offer and how I could use them to support children and their families.  Some of the resources I actually have visited with children, but not enough to raise the entire guide to a level IV. 

For the Service Learning component of ECE 333, I had the fortunate opportunity to work closely with the Head-Start Family Service Provider in the Ithaca City School District.  I was able to work with the district to provide helpful guidance to families in a supportive and respectful manner.

Creating a comprehensive field trip plan gave me an opportunity to directly connect children in a classroom to a resource in their community.  As part of my plan, I created ways to strongly encourage parental involvement.  This community and family involvement reassures children of the safety of their world, and greatly aids to their cognitive and social development.