EDUC6165 - Adjourning

            For this assignment I would like to discuss the group/team formed around each of the children I have cared for over the years.  Each child that has entered into my classroom has had a team formed to identify, plan for, foster, and meet his/her individual needs, strengths, and interests.  Each team would consist of the parent(s) or guardian, the teaching staff of the classroom (one lead and two assistants), and the child.  If outside assistance or services were needed, they would also be added to the team.  This may not be the typical team that comes to mind for most, but to me these are the most essential and important teams I have ever been a member of in my professional life.

            The relationship formed with each child and family is as different and varied as the child and family themselves.  Each is unique, depending upon the needs, strengths, and experiences.  The hardest groups to leave are those that have had unusual circumstances and challenges that have been faced and overcome.  Often it is harder for the parent(s) to say goodbye that the child or the teachers.  As a teacher, you know that your job is to prepare the child for an upcoming transition.  Each new skill or development leads in that direction.  There is a great sense of accomplishment to feel that you have helped this child to prepare for this moment.  The child, if developmentally ready will typically have a smooth transition when facilitated by staff.  Parents have grown to trust you and sometimes depend upon you and find it difficult to have to face the unknown all over again.

            The adjournment phase can be critical for parent’s adjustment to a new classroom and to developing a relationship with the next team of teachers that will care for their child.  I make a point of starting to prepare parents from the time they enter my classroom for the phase of adjournment and transition to a new room.  A few months prior to the actual transition time, I will begin to have regular conversations with the parent(s) about the upcoming transition process, and what we will do together to ensure their child is ready.  I offer the opportunity to take them to the prospective classrooms to observe and meet some of the staff.  I try to make sure they are well informed and put any doubt and fears to rest.  I also let them know that my classroom is always open to them if they have questions, concerns, something they would like to share, or just to say hello.

            An adjournment from a group should be an opportunity for closure, to say goodbye, and perhaps most important to prepare the members for what may be coming next (Abudi, 2010).  Change can be very upsetting to some and this is the time to prepare for the upcoming changes; often unknown. A sense of anticipation can be fostered with a positive attitude and approach to the adjournment process.

            I was very unsure of what I was getting into when I first enrolled with Walden.  I had no real idea of what type of experience or education was about to begin.  Each class has allowed me to meet, and get to know many early childhood professionals and advocates that I may never have met otherwise.  I find the experience of learning from, sharing, and interacting with so many people dedicated to children and families very encouraging and inspiring.  I hope that at the end of this program I am able to stay in touch with many and continue to share with and learn from each other.  

Reference

Abudi, G. (2010). The five stages of team development: A care study. Retrieved from http://www.projectsmart.co.uk/the-five-stages-of-team-development-a-case-study.html