Additional Resources...

http://rec.ohiorc.org/default.aspx

This seems like the resource center for resources.  It has quite a few interesting articles, ideas, etc.  I like looking around the internet for ideas on activities to do with Matthew. 

Another couple of websites I enjoy are the VeggieTales, Nick, Jr. and Disney, Jr. websites.  They have some great ideas as well.

I also like reading Parenting, the Early Years, magazine.  Even though I know I am not the only one going through things, like the terrible two's (:)), it is nice to read how other parents are handling some of the same siturations. 

Personal Childhood Web

I actually cannot think of 5 people that made a huge impact on my life growing up.  I can think of a few.  My grandmother would be my biggest one.  Her name is Elfrieda Sorey.  I remember that she always used to be there for me, especially since my mother and I did not get along.  I always thought her and I had a special bond.  She is the one who taught me how to cross stitch, helped me to speak German, and we always shared a special treat, 3 Musketeers bars, just the two of us, whenever I went over to visit.  I still look to my grandmother for wisdom, and have much respect for her.  She still makes me laugh, and still has plenty of life in her, something I plan to have as I get that age.

Another person who had an impact was my best friend at the time, Rebecca Pendleton.  She was actually the only person I was able to hang out with my last couple of years at high school.  We briefly stayed in touch, then lost touch for about 12 years, and just recently got back in touch, thanks to Facebook.  It was just good at that time to have someone to call a friend, and be able to hang out with, and discuss things, someone who wasn't family.

And though I can't remember their names, unfortunately, I have had a couple teachers during my high school years who were great.  My German teacher, who I had for 5 years, and actually pushed to have a German 6, even though I was the only student.  And my Economics teacher always believed in me, and always gave me advice when I asked for it.

Hmmm...

You can learn many things from children. How much patience you have, for instance. ~Franklin P. Jones


Patience is definitely not something I was born with.  But dealing with a toddler has definitely made me think twice before I lose it.  Mainly because I want Matthew to learn how to deal with stressful situations without losing it.  Children look to adults for many things, including how to deal with everyday life.  I want to be his best teacher for that.

My reason for early childhood education...

is posted right above.  I think if I didn't have the passion and motivation I did to learn all I could about Matthew and  his development and what I could do, he wouldn't have turned out the way he did.  It makes me want to learn more, and to reach out to others so they too can get motivated and excited about their children.

First Week

This is my first week as a student at Walden University. A little nervous to be taking these courses, especially at this level, but at the same time, excited to learn something new. I'm looking forward to working with my colleagues and learning all I can able early childhood education.