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Today, our weather is quite different than last year. Our weather today is warm. Thus, as we see, the snow was melting. Living here for about three years, this is the first time I've seen something like it during winter. Our landscape is usually blanketed in snow by now, but here we have the spring weather. It's a bit weird for me. I like that I don't have to bundle up so much, but it also makes me think. Is this going to happen more often now? Everyone discusses climate change and what it means for us here in Yukon. It feels like we're part of a big experiment, trying to figure out what's happening. I'm curious, but at the same time, I'm a little worried about what this could mean for our future here. As an educator, I can connect this to children by discussing the changes we see in our weather. I can start by chatting with them, listening to their thoughts, and sharing stories about what's happening outside—how it's different from what we're used to. I can also explain climate change in simple terms, using pictures or stories, so they can understand why things are changing. I can ask them questions to get them thinking about why these changes might happen and what we can do about it, giving them ideas for small actions to make a difference. It's also important to address their worries and show them that by working together, we can improve things while encouraging them to stay curious and keep learning about this important topic.

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Today is November 3rd

Today's weather is hitting around -13 degrees Celsius, and some pond parts have already frozen. The wintry touch covering the landscape with a frosty charm is quite a scenery. The chill in the air is unmistakable, adding a calm but brisk feel to the day. Experiencing this kind of environment is quite challenging as I grew up in a country where I can only experience two seasons of weather. However, as an educator, I need to adapt and be flexible to encourage children to go outside the land. Encouraging kids to embrace outdoor fun in the cold is a mix of creativity and teaching. I want to show them how fantastic winter can be by exploring snowy landscapes, having snowball fights, and discovering winter wildlife. Making sure they're dressed warmly and safe is important, but I also join in the excitement, demonstrating how much fun we can have outside even when it's freezing. Setting up a cozy outdoor spot and cheering them on for their efforts helps them see that enjoying the winter outdoors can be an incredible adventure full of learning and unforgettable experiences.

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Today is October 20, 2023

We are asked to make this as part of our activity in the land. It consists of moss, tree branches and pine cones. We try to be as creative as possible. However, it is snowing; thus, we can't find other colourful objects to add to this. This activity is exciting because when one idea comes up, everybody will follow. For instance, when I put the moss in one part of the circle, my classmates do the same thing and fill in the edge of the circle, which makes it more beautiful. I think doing this activity on the land makes it more exciting and enjoyable.

#EL102 #LandObservation

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We made this tree hut while staying outside of the land. I am so proud of us for making this hut as beautiful and somewhat inhabitable as possible. Doing this made me realize First Nation people had lived in this kind of house before. The way they live is simple and relaxing, which is different for today's century. I wonder how they keep their tree hut warm during winter times.

#EL102 #LandObservation

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As an educator,
- I envision myself as warm, patient, and sometimes silly.
- My goal is to create a nurturing and inclusive environment. - I want to encourage curiosity and foster learning through playing.
- I aim to understand each child's unique needs and maintain strong relationships with both children and parents.

#EL102 #Reflectiveofpractice

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Today is October 6, 2023

I've noticed the leaves from some plants are now falling. I know and expect this will likely happen, where there's no more yellow/orange touch of colour in this spot. It means the fall is over, and winter will appear soon. Personally, winter for me is exciting but challenging at the same time—the struggle of carrying heavy jackets to keep me warm and the more time needed to get ready. I don't know if I can go outside the land when the weather drops negative 5. However, the covering of white snow in different places is a beautiful thing I love. Thus, I will try and continuously be with the land, even just for 5 minutes.

#EL102 #LandObservation

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This week's assignment has allowed me to explore the historical factors that have significantly affected First Nation families in Canada, as detailed in Root's (2020) article, "MSIT No'Kmaq: An Indigenous Framework for understanding children's social-emotional attachment." The insights I've gained from the article have expanded my understanding of how these historical events have shaped the development of First Nation children in Canada. I've also observed some similarities with my Filipino heritage. One of the most prominent historical factors is colonization, which resembles the colonial history of the Philippines. Canada and the Philippines experienced colonization, displacing indigenous cultures, languages, and traditional ways of life. This disruption profoundly affected indigenous family structures and community cohesion, ultimately impacting children's social and emotional development.
Root's article also highlights the troubling history of residential schools in Canada. These institutions forcibly separated indigenous children from their families and subjected them to physical and emotional abuse while erasing their cultural identities. The traumatic experiences of these children undoubtedly left lasting scars on their social and emotional well-being, echoing the suppression of indigenous cultures and practices.
Another critical historical factor affecting First Nation families is the loss of land and resources. The dispossession of traditional lands and resources has led to economic hardships, affecting their children's physical and emotional development. Economic disparities and resource deprivation continue to pose ongoing challenges.
Intergenerational trauma knows no borders and affects indigenous communities worldwide. Historical trauma has been passed down in Canada through generations, resulting in ongoing mental health issues, substance abuse, and social challenges. This phenomenon underscores historical events' profound and lasting impact on the present.
In conclusion, Root's (2020) article has shed light on the historical factors that have harmed First Nation families in Canada, significantly shaping the development of First Nation children. As a Filipino immigrant, I can't help but notice the similarities between these historical experiences and those of indigenous communities in the Philippines. It underscores the shared global struggle for indigenous rights and emphasizes the importance of culturally sensitive child development and education approaches.
As an educator, this understanding is crucial. It underscores the importance of creating a supportive and culturally sensitive learning environment where First Nation children can reconnect with their heritage, heal from historical wounds, and thrive. Incorporating indigenous frameworks like MSIT No'Kmaq into early childhood education becomes imperative, promoting healthy social and emotional attachment and ensuring that children can grow and develop in an environment that respects their heritage and fosters their well-being.
The historical factors discussed in Root's article have left a profound and lasting impact on First Nation families in Canada, influencing their children's social and emotional development. While specific to Canada, these historical factors have global parallels, highlighting the need for collective efforts to uphold indigenous rights and well-being worldwide.

#EL121 #ROPjounal

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As a future daycare director in Yukon. I would consider the following five principles of the British Columbia Early Learning Framework:

1. Child-centred Learning: My primary focus would always be on the children. Each child is unique, and I ensure that our activities and approach cater to their needs, interests, and developmental stages. We'd create an environment where they can learn through play and exploration at their own pace. (pg. 39)

2. Inclusivity and Embracing Diversity: I will take pride in fostering an inclusive and inviting atmosphere that honours cultures and backgrounds present in Yukon. (pg. 19)

3. Nurturing Relationships: I will recognize the profound impact of positive relationships and interactions on a child's development. I will prioritize building strong connections between children, caregivers, and families founded on trust, open communication, and responsive caregiving. (pg.25)

4. The Power of Play: I agree that play is a child's natural way of exploring the world, and the activities are thoughtfully crafted to encourage open-ended, imaginative play that promotes problem-solving skills and social growth. (pg.24)

5. Continuous Growth: Regularly assessing and adapting our practices is a cornerstone of our approach, ensuring we remain responsive to children's and families' needs. (pg.18)

I want to create a place where children have a nurturing, enriching, and exceptional early learning experience.

#EL102 #FoundationalKnowledge

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As a Filipino who recently moved to Canada, I was pleasantly surprised when one of my coworkers told me something fascinating – that rosehips are edible. I've seen this rosehip in different places, and I have no idea what it is and if it's edible because it looks like berry. Then, there was one time when I was working with infants. They were eating this rosehip, but I stopped them. That's the time my coworker told me its name. Thrilled about this new knowledge, I immediately tell my nephew. During a casual chat, I asked them if they knew the berry-like fruit in rose plants. I then shared all the exciting information I'd learned about the nutritional benefits of rosehips and how they can be incorporated into various dishes or even make tea. As they are curious, we walk and find one to check what it tastes like. I aimed to turn it into a joint adventure, a shared discovery that would ignite our curiosity and deepen our appreciation for this unique aspect of nature.

#EL102 #LandObservation

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When I think about my own experiences as a Filipino student who moved to Canada, I can't help but reflect on how the theories of Jerome Bruner and Barbara Rogoff resonate with my journey. Jerome Bruner's ideas about cognitive development and culture hit close to home for me. Growing up in the Philippines, I was immersed in a rich cultural environment. Language, customs, and traditions were all a part of my daily life. I vividly remember every summer, I always go to my grandparent's house to stay with them. I was sitting with my grandparents, and they told me stories that weren't just entertaining but also carried valuable life lessons and cultural wisdom. The values they taught and remain in me is respecting elders like coconut trees because they said the coconut tree is generous in providing a wide range of products, including coconuts, coconut water, and coconut oil, which are vital for sustenance and daily life. Similarly with them, elders often generously share their knowledge, guidance, and life experiences. Also, language played a pivotal role. It wasn't just about communication; it was a doorway to my culture, my identity. On the other hand, Barbara Rogoff's concept of "guided participation" strikes a chord when I recall my early years in the Philippines. I learned by doing and by participating in everyday activities with my family. Whether it was helping my parents prepare traditional Filipino dishes or engaging in community rituals, I was constantly surrounded by opportunities to learn and grow. I remember my brother and I having a list of chores. We called ourselves helpers as he did the dishes with Grandma while I cut some ingredients with our mom. It wasn't just about being taught but actively engaging in my culture. This practice of letting children help while they are still young is a great learning process and knowledge that will help them in the future. These two theories highlight the significance of culture and social interaction in shaping a person's development. They recognize the importance of cultural tools, practices, and guidance from more experienced people. However, they differ in their emphasis. Bruner places a strong focus on the role of cultural symbols and language in cognitive development, while Rogoff emphasizes the importance of learning through active participation in culturally relevant activities. In my journey, both perspectives hold true. Bruner's ideas helped me understand how language and cultural symbols were the building blocks of my cognitive development. Meanwhile, Rogoff's theory resonates with my learning experiences through active engagement in cultural practices and traditions. Together, they paint a picture of how my culture has played a vital role in shaping who I am today as a Filipino immigrant in Canada.

#EL121 #ROPjounal

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I decided to bring a magnifying glass because it represents a child's natural curiosity. Kids are known for their ability to find wonder and explore the smallest things, just like when they use a magnifying glass to examine insects, leaves, or other objects closely. It symbolizes holding onto that sense of amazement and exploration throughout our lives.
Also, a magnifying glass helps you focus on the finer details of the world, something children often do as they try to understand things better.

#EL102 #FoundationalKnowledge

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Today, I had a chance to explore my inner strengths and intelligence, which turned out to be a fascinating journey of self-discovery. The assessment I engaged in was designed to uncover my top three intelligences, and the results showed a strong inclination toward spatial, musical, and natural intelligence. These acknowledgments have prompted me to contemplate how I perceive and interact with the world around me, drawing parallels with the ideas of Howard Gardner's theory of Multiple Intelligences and Maria Montessori's educational philosophy.

Spatial Proficiency (Score: 4.57): This skill centers on quickly grasping visual and spatial data. I have an innate talent for tasks involving the visualization of complex structures, problem-solving through puzzles, and adeptly navigating intricate surroundings. Since childhood, I've been really into solving picture puzzles, which I put in frames to collect and display in our house in the Philippines. When information is presented visually, I can remember it quickly, which is helpful for me to navigate. This result beautifully aligns with Howard Gardner's theory, which suggests that intelligence is multifaceted, and each individual possesses a unique blend of these facets.
Maria Montessori's educational philosophy resonates with my spatial intelligence. Her emphasis on hands-on learning and creating environments that help exploration and discovery aligns with my spatial abilities. My knack for understanding how objects and elements relate to one another would thrive in such an environment. Montessori's belief in respecting each child's individuality also fits well with Gardner's theory, as both recognize that intelligence comes in diverse forms and should be nurtured accordingly.
Musical Intelligence: My aptitude for musical intelligence is in harmony with my passion for music and my ability to discern patterns in sounds and rhythms. This intelligence fits neatly within Gardner's theory, which recognizes musical intelligence as an essential component of human cognition. Music's power to evoke emotions and convey complex ideas underscores its importance as a human expression. Music helps me in different ways. I have a playlist to calm me down if I'm sad and anxious. But If I'm in the mood to boost my energy, loud and dance music playlists are on the rescue. My musical intelligence score reinforces that various avenues for understanding and communication exist, extending beyond traditional verbal or mathematical channels.
Nature Intelligence: Lastly, my strong affinity for nature intelligence highlights a profound connection with the natural world. Gardner's theory beautifully reinforces that human cognition extends beyond conventional academic subjects. Nature intelligence encompasses appreciating and comprehending the environment, ecosystems, and living organisms.
Maria Montessori's approach to education, which emphasizes hands-on learning and fostering a connection with the natural world, aligns with nurturing a form of intelligence linked to nature. Montessori's belief in offering children opportunities to discover and appreciate the natural environment, encouraging wonder and respect for nature, is in harmony with my affinity for nature. My nature-related intelligence score reinforces the value of integrating experiences in the natural world into education to nurture individuals' holistic development.
In conclusion, this assessment has unveiled valuable insights into my unique intelligence blend, highlighting human cognition's diversity and richness. My spatial, musical, and natural intelligence strengths align well with Howard Gardner's theory of Multiple Intelligences and Maria Montessori's educational philosophy. These results serve as a reminder that education should be a personalized journey tailored to an individual's strengths and passions and that there are numerous paths to understanding and achievement.

#EL121 #ROPjounal

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"Edie is Ever So Helpful" is a wonderfully charming children's book that has a meaningful lesson hidden within its pages. It gently nudges children to be true to themselves and take away valuable lessons from their mistakes. It's a story that encourages children to embrace their individuality fully and reassures them that making errors is a part of life's journey. How they use these experiences to learn and become better versions of themselves truly matters.

#EL102 #FoundationalKnowledge

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Last Friday's Task: Take a picture that caught your attention.

I chose to capture this beautiful plant I spotted while we were sitting down. What struck me about it was how its leaves turned this vibrant shade of red because of the changing season. It got me thinking about how we can strengthen our connection with the natural world. I think it deepened my connection with the natural world. I will start familiarizing myself with my local ecosystem and paying close attention to seasonal changes. I can also begin a nature journal to record my observations like this and use all my senses to fully engage with nature. These actions are helping me foster a deeper connection with the environment, enriching my personal well-being, and reinforcing my commitment to environmental conservation.

#EL102 #LandObservation

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I symbolize this circle disc to a child. Its different colours represent its personality and characteristics, which makes them unique.

#EL102 #FoundationalKnowledge

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This week: Land Observation.

We are asked to make our own guide while wandering around the land. It is our tool in case we get lost; thus, I draw this map. I found something interesting when I was outside. There was a creek that flowed through the area, and it was quite long because it had two bridges along its trail. It was a neat discovery and added a unique aspect to my exploration.

Actually, I'm not typically the type of person who enjoys long walks or extended periods outdoors. My usual idea of a good time is cozying up indoors, watching movies, or simply relaxing on my bed. However, because of this course and cultural competencies, I've come to recognize the value of spending time in nature. Surprisingly, those two hours spent outdoors had a profound impact on me. I experienced a sense of peace and calmness. It's truly astonishing how the natural world can positively influence one's mood and overall well-being. This has encouraged me to reconsider my preferences, and I'm beginning to enjoy and appreciate going outdoors.

#EL102 #LandObservation

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We are asked to do two questions about Early Learning and the British Columbia framework. As a student and an educator, I've often found myself contemplating two intriguing questions of Early Learning:

1. I've been wondering about the profound impact of cultural diversity on early learning practices here in Canada. This question feels especially relevant to me as a Filipina immigrant. During a child's formative years, it is crucial to investigate how different cultural backgrounds affect how we approach teaching and learning.

2. I've also been contemplating the current research findings concerning the influence of screen time on the growth and development of young children. In our modern world, technology holds a prominent position in their daily routines, making it essential for me to remain informed about how it shapes their cognitive, social, and emotional progress.

Moreover, within the context of the British Columbia Early Learning Framework, two questions have caught my attention:

1. How does the framework address the specific needs of newcomers and immigrant children in early learning settings? Given the cultural diversity, it's crucial to ensure that the framework is inclusive and responsive to the unique requirements of these children and their families.

2. I'm also curious about how the framework underscores the significance of outdoor and nature-based learning experiences for young children, considering the abundant natural beauty of Canada. Encouraging such experiences can foster a deeper connection with the environment and enhance children's holistic development, and I'm eager to explore how the framework supports this aspect.

#EL102 #FoundationalKnowledge

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#EL121 #ChildGrowthDevelopment

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I drew this last year for the winter course Cultural Competencies. It is also a part of an assignment called land journal. I want to put this drawing here for my land observation for this course EL 102. This is Atlin Lake. Last month, when we had a long weekend, my family planned to visit the lake again. As we try to enjoy the summer in Yukon, we want to see the towering mountains of Atlin again that reflect in the crystal-clear waters. There's so much more I'd love to uncover about Atlin Lake. Firstly, I'd be interested in what species of fish and wildlife call this area home. Also, I'd want to explore the cultural heritage tied to Atlin Lake, including any traditional stories or legends associated with it. Every time I step outside, I really enjoy spending quality time with my family and the chance to bond over shared experiences. I think going outside for me is about exploration and connection.

#EL102 #LandObservation

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In today's season, Fall.

We are out of the land this Friday as part of our land observation. During this time of the year, the weather gets cooler, and the leaves on trees start changing colors. It's fascinating to see how dramatically the colors of these plants change during this season. Some of the leaves were turning yellow, while others were turning vibrant shades of red. I think, as an Educator, we can get kids excited about nature during these land observations. I can teach them about how the seasons change and affect everything.

#EL102 #LandObservation