Reflective Analysis of Portfolio Artifact

Rationale/Reflection
NAEYC Standard:
STANDARD 1. PROMOTING CHILD DEVELOPMENT AND LEARNING
Candidates prepared in early childhood degree programs are grounded in a child
development knowledge base. They use their understanding of young childrens
characteristics and needs, and of multiple interacting influences on childrens
development and learning, to create environments that are healthy, respectful,
supportive, and challenging for each child. (NAEYC, 2010)

Brief Description of Evidence:

During the spring semester of 2014 during my ECED 120-Child Growth and Development
course, I worked the entire semester compiling information from my past to conduct a
self-study through each of Erik Eriksons stages of psychosocial development. Through
each of Eriksons eight stages of development I connected with people in my life at that
point in time. I then took what I learned about myself and compared it with the given
stage. I then analyzed which side of the psychosocial stage I was on and how it affected
me in my life. After compiling information to my current age I then projected and
imagined the remaining stages based on how I developed thus far. This project allowed
me the opportunity to appreciate my life journey.

Analysis of What I Learned:

I learned how to evaluate my life experiences in relation to developmental theory. I was
able to recognize the impact of each psychosocial development stage and the outcomes.
I was able to identify and explore ways to support children in their growth and
development process related to early brain development, self-concept, and their
relationship with others.

How This Artifact Demonstrates my Competence on the NAEYC

Standard:
This Erikson self-study demonstrates my competence in promoting child development
and learning by associating the psychosocial development theory to understanding
young childrens characteristics and needs. By understanding Eriksons theory I have
knowledge to create a healthy, respectful, and supportive environment. I will do this by
spending time talking with children and their families learning about their interests and
experiences. I will also help children develop autonomy, friendships and pro-social
behaviors by building on childrens interests and elaborate on their play. I will provided
open-ended materials such as blocks and pretend props to express themselves. I will also
model right from wrong so children can learn by example. Through this project I am
experienced in promoting child development and learning.