Research Around the World

     In Australia there are great things happening in the field of early childhood education, after viewing a website provided for this week's blog assignment; some current international research topics found are regarding supporting literacy learning in the field of early childhood during the early years by exploring connections between speaking, writing, reading, and listening. Another topic is regarding inclusion and the manner in which teachers are approaching and creating learning environments for all children to be successful. The websites also provides other examples of what is discussed under this topic such as, inclusive family practices and how children relate to these strategies.
     Some insights gained from exploring this international early childhood website were those regarding building better behaviors and focusing on preventive programs for parents and teachers of young children aged 3-18 years with developmental delays or disabilities. Their approach is designed to work with teachers, parents, and health professionals to provide strategies for parents to develop positive behaviors in their children by teaching the child new skills and dealing with stressful situations. Secondly, there is a program provided through Kids Count which is a free program provided for families with a referral from a health professional that focuses on the mental health of young children. The program offers support services to families with children under the age of 5 years to include financial support, health/mental issues, and relationship conflicts. One example provided is of a facility named Alunga Children's Centre which supported a young child that had difficulty with separation anxiety during morning drop off by providing a psychologist to assist the child as well as the mother. I think this is awesome! Thirdly, I respect the fact that their Code of Ethics is a living document that provides required up-dates to maintain the needs of children now and in the future.
     Lastly, I found that there is an opportunity for professionals in the field that have a desire to share their knowledge and to give input regarding the early childhood field best practices by submitting writings and become featured in their various publications such as the: Australasian Journal of Early Childhood, ECA Voice newsletter, or The Spoke-Early Childhood Australia's Blog.

Reference

Early Childhood Australia: http://www.earlychildhoodaustralia.org.au/