1. ECE-3038-Child Development 3-6 Yrs

2. ECE-1075-Child Development 0-3 Yrs

3. ECED-3038-(11)-ECE7 – Child Development 3-6 Yrs

Reflection: I have chosen these two artifacts because they demonstrate my understanding and knowledge that I have developed through my time in both child development classes. This also shows vast features of child development. Additionally, these artifacts highlight topics like self-efficacy, interreference to development like food insecurity, single parent and the effects it has on a child’s development process.

Three artifacts can be summarized as;

The self-efficacy artifact describes the difference between self-efficacy and self-esteem, defines self-efficacy and its importance, elaborates on the influence in children, and the four steps of self-efficacy.

The case study artifact details experiences from a six-year-old boy named Liam who lives with his brother and single father. It details the struggle of food insecurity and family stressors. Throughout the paper, interference with Liam's development was discussed, as well as a plan of support.

The weekly reflection artifact details from week 1 to 5 about trauma-informed classrooms and the impacts,inequalities in early childhood field that impact educators and children, how to teach expression of emotions, the role of epigenetics, and how language facilitates social interaction.  

For my future as an Early Childhood Educator, I plan to apply the knowledge I’ve gained by creating a classroom environment that encourages holistic development in each child. Thus, focusing on unique strategies that support each child's various needs, helping them to build confidence in all areas.

1. ECE-1076 Curriculum & Pedagogy: 0-3 Yrs

2. ECE-3042- Curriculum & Pedagogy: 3-6 Yrs

3. ECE-3042- Curriculum & Pedagogy: 3-6 Yrs

Reflection:

I have added these artifacts to my portfolio as they demonstrate that this artifact showcases my ability to understand and communicate the importance of outdoor play for young children. By explaining how outdoor play benefits children ages 0-3 years, I show my understanding of the developmental milestones and how outdoor play can foster physical, social, emotional, and cognitive growth.

This artifact demonstrates my deeper understanding of early childhood education theory, especially regarding the difference between curriculum and pedagogy. It does so by making connections to the kindergarten frames and clarifying the roles of early childhood educators versus teachers, also showing an evolving understanding of educational frameworks and how they guide my personal practice. This artifact reflects my growth in understanding not only how to create a curriculum that supports children’s learning but also the different teaching methods (pedagogy) that will make the curriculum effective for all children.

This artifact details a case study about a four year girl who struggles with her speech and how her team of teacher, educator, speech pathologist, & parent can help her through collaborating, interventions, & creating individualized learning plan.

As an educator, I believe these artifacts demonstrate my growth through highlighting my ability to connect theory with practice. Together, they reflect that I am absorbing theoretical knowledge but also applying it in my role as an educator. Through these artifacts, I am supporting my continuous growth into a thoughtful, & well-rounded early childhood educator

1. ECE-1053 Promoting Pro-Social Behaviour

2. ECE-3040 Professionalism, Ethics & Advocacy

Reflection: I have added these artifacts to my portfolio as they demonstrate an understanding of effective guidance in early childhood education, the importance of positive relationships, self-regulation, and the active role educators play in shaping behavior through modeling, and support. It also highlights the need for flexibility, observation, and ongoing collaboration to create an environment that supports the developmental needs of the children.

As an educator, I believe it is essential to remain open to learning and familiarize oneself with new practices. Collaborating with colleagues, reflecting on the needs of children and families, and continuously improving classroom strategies will ensure that the practice guidelines are met. Essential actions include listening attentively to children, maintaining flexibility, and ensuring that the learning environment encourages self-regulation and positive interactions.

This artifact details a photo that was taken on my last day at my job. The photo included my students, my co-teacher, and myself. Through this photovoice reflection I discussed how being present in the moment was important for me and how I felt a sense of pride because at the same time I helped shape this group of pre-teens into great people who are kind, and compassionate.

These artifacts demonstrate my growth as an educator by showing my ability to move from a rule approach to a child-centered, relationship style. I’ve developed a stronger understanding of self-regulation and how to support it through modeling, and positive interactions.. I’m also learning to apply theory to real-life classroom scenarios, aligning my practices with professional guidelines. Through reflection and ongoing learning, I am becoming a confident educator committed to supporting each child’s development.

1. Food handlers,

2. CPR/First Aid certificate

3. ECE 1005

Both certificates were completed while working in the field, and the last artifact was completed in this course.

Reflection: I have added these artifacts to my portfolio as they demonstrate my willingness to meet essential health practices that would be needed in everyday duties as an educator and they both ensure that I am creating a safe environment.

As an educator, I believe they align with health regulations and practices in early childhood education. They ensure that I can provide immediate, appropriate responses to any health emergencies and food safety, helping to protect the children in my care and maintain a safe, and healthy environment in line with ethical standards.

This artifact is a song I wrote for one of my classes last semester about hand hygiene. The song had to be easy to remember and catchy so the children can sing along while practicing good hygiene.

These artifacts demonstrate my growth by showing a commitment to the well-being of children, which is an essential component of being a responsible and effective early childhood educator.

CYC-602- Children's Rights

ECE -3040

Reflection: I have added this artifact to my portfolio as it demonstrates the fundamental importance of human rights for all individuals, including children, and argues that children's rights should be treated with the same level of respect and consideration. It highlights the role of children’s rights in shaping a better society and addresses various issues such as education, poverty, disabilities, race, and the struggles Indigenous children face.

As an educator, I believe that children should be seen as human beings with rights, deserving of respect, protection, and opportunities for empowerment. This includes ensuring access to quality education, addressing the challenges faced by children living in poverty or with disabilities, and combating systemic inequalities, particularly for marginalized groups such as Indigenous children and children of color.

This artifact was written by myself and my group members we wrote it to our minister of education leader requesting better wages for RECE's. We talked about the responsibilities that we have and our impact.

This artifact demonstrates my growth in several ways, It shows my development from a learner about children’s rights to an advocate in a professional role. It highlights my understanding of the importance of children’s rights, my commitment to addressing inequalities, and my growing capacity to apply theoretical insights to real-world educational practice. These qualities are essential for becoming a compassionate educator who not only teaches but also nurtures the holistic development of children.

Reggio Emilia & CCEYA Certificate

FLDP - 1038 - Field Seminar

Completed the Reggio Emilia course while working in the field, and completed the CCEYA Certificate for course ECE-3042- Curriculum & Pedagogy: 3-6 Yrs

Reflection: I have added these artifacts to my portfolio as they demonstrate understanding of research-informed practices, promote reflective practice, and engage in continuous professional learning. By incorporating research-based methods into my current teaching practices, I am better equipped to create an enriching environment for children.

This artifact is a self assessment that helped me learn about how I reflect and it was an in depth paper that detailed not just what I do but also what I don’t do. It covered how much I reflect, the use of reflection methods/tools, considering others point of view, questioning assumptions, and lastly my freedom to reflect. This was very insightful and helped me grow as an educator. 

As an educator, I believe these artifacts foster collaboration, advocacy, and leadership within the early childhood education field, supporting lifelong learning and contributing to the advancement of the profession of early childhood education.

These artifacts demonstrate my growth through playing a pivotal role in enhancing research and professional learning. These certifications demonstrate ongoing professional development.

After high school, I completed my diploma from Humber College in Child and Youth care, then after graduation, went on to Ryerson University, now known as Toronto Metropolitan University. There, I was able to complete my degree in Child and Youth Care as well.

I chose this program because I have been working in the field as an early childhood assistant for the past two years. After working in the classrooms, I realized that I had developed a love for the field and wanted to offer my best while expanding my job opportunities.

Since starting my placement in May 2025, I'm enjoying being in the classroom again and building relationships with my students, co-workers, and parents. The following artifacts show my acquired skills in child, & curriculum/program development, partnerships, health certifications, advocacy work, and professional learning, making me a reflective practitioner.

Thank you for joining me on the journey through my early career!

Kimberley Curtis

1. Resume of all my volunteer and work experience of the last eight years.

2. Field Placement photo

Reflection: This artifact shows my volunteer experiencing dating back to high school through my college years, & past work experiences.

This reflection also shows an activity that was planned by me at placement. This activity gave the children a chance to practice recognizing numbers and counting while combining their love for blocks. They had to roll the dice and find number on the chart to match, then put the amount of cubes on that spot.