Exploring Childcare: My Senior Project Journey

As a big sister, I've always been exposed to the basics of caring for children. When it came time for my senior project, I opted for the self-development option, enrolling in an "Intro to Child Care" class at WITC (Wisconsin Indianhead Technical College). This class followed a Pass/Fail grading system, and I saw it as an opportunity to expand my existing knowledge of childcare. Additionally, I wanted to use this experience to determine if a career in childcare was the right path for me, helping me make informed decisions about future college choices and required programs.

My initial goals for this project were to successfully complete the class, broaden my knowledge, and decide whether I wanted to pursue a career in childcare.

Getting Started

Before I could embark on this educational journey, I needed to gather information on how to enroll in the class. The first step involved visiting Mrs. McGrath's classroom to obtain the necessary sign-up sheets and enrollment papers from WITC.

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After completing the required paperwork, I submitted it to Mrs. McGrath for processing. The class met every Tuesday and Thursday from 3:00 pm to 5:30 pm, starting on October 1st, 2013, and continued for two months.

Course Content and Expectations

Throughout the course, we covered various aspects of childcare, including the qualifications and expectations of childcare providers. This foundational knowledge was essential to understanding the responsibilities and requirements of the role. As the class progressed, we delved into child brain and physical development. This topic underscored the significance of brain and physical development in a child's life, as it has lifelong implications.

Damage to specific areas of a child's brain can have lasting effects, making early childhood development a critical phase.

One key insight from the course was the role of attention in a child's brain development. Attention plays a pivotal role in shaping how a child's brain responds to stimuli and interactions. We also discussed the importance of addressing eye problems in children promptly, as they can impact learning and attention abilities (Benson).

Encouraging physical development in children was another vital aspect we explored. Creating an environment that fosters exploration, providing push-pull toys, and engaging in activities like reading and singing to children can positively contribute to their physical development (Longo).

Safety in Childcare Centers

Our course also emphasized the importance of safety in childcare centers. Many of the rules and guidelines seemed like common sense, but they were essential for ensuring a secure environment for children. For instance, teachers and volunteers must be free from illness, smoking is strictly prohibited on the premises, and open windows must be equipped with screens (Department of Children and Families).

Researching Potential Colleges

As part of the coursework, I had to research three colleges that offered Early Childhood Education programs. This research aimed to help me decide which school I would prefer to attend if I chose to pursue a career in childcare. The colleges I investigated were the University of Wisconsin-Superior, Winona State University, and Concordia University. Among these options, the University of Wisconsin-Superior stood out as the most likely choice due to its proximity and more affordable tuition compared to the other institutions.

Conclusion of the Class

Upon completing the class, my primary objective was met as I received a passing grade. The last day of the class marked December 12, 2013. I gained valuable insights into childcare, acquired essential knowledge, and clarified my career goals. I am now eligible to work as an assistant teacher in any childcare center once I turn eighteen, and I have also received certification in Shaken Baby Syndrome Training.

This senior project has opened up numerous opportunities for me and equipped me with the skills and knowledge to pursue a career in childcare confidently. I am ready to face the challenges that lie ahead and excited about the possibilities this career path offers. Overall, I am extremely grateful for the opportunity to undertake this senior project, as it has allowed me to explore new horizons and set me on a path towards a fulfilling career in childcare.