Reflective Analysis of Portfolio Artifact

Rationale/Reflection
InTASC/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:
In the fall semester of 2015, I completed an extensive autobiographical paper based on
Ericksons theory of psychosocial development. The paper included summaries defining all
eight stages of Eriksons theory. I then wrote autobiographical accounts of how these
psychosocial stages related to my life experiences. Each of Ericksons stages entail an aspect of
conflict and resolution. In the paper I reflected on how each of these conflicts were, or were not
resolved in my life. I have not yet lived through Ericksons final two stages. However, I was
able to adequately predict what these stages may be like for me based on previous life
experiences.
Analysis of What I Learned:
Through course materials and further research, I have learned a great deal about
Ericksons theory of psychosocial development. I understand how vitally important the earliest
stages of psychosocial development are to the overall well-being of children. I have learned that
unresolved conflict in the earlier stages can have a negative impact for the child throughout their
life span. Early childhood educators have the responsibility to provide young children with
positive, secure, and supportive environments. I have learned it is important to understand how a
child progresses through the developmental stages. I also understand that children come from a
variety of home environments and unique experiences. It is important to discern each childs
needs and support them thought their development.
How This Artifact Demonstrates my Competence of the InTASC/NAEYC Standard:
Competency in the selected InTASC/NAEYC standard has been demonstrated by
completing the assignment based on Eriksons stages of psychosocial development. I have
demonstrated my understanding of each of these stages and was able to apply them to my life
experiences. I have further demonstrated my competency in the above standard by
understanding how these concepts apply to early childhood education. I have conveyed the
importance of providing young children with positive, supportive, and secure environments to
promote healthy development. By understanding a childs needs at each of the developmental
stages, I will be well equipped to provide children with encouragement, support, and experiences
which will foster growth across all developmental domains. I understand that there are many
influences which affect a childs development. I also understand that as an early childhood
educator that I will have the opportunity to make a positive impact in the lives of young children.