Personal childbirthing experience

The childbirthing experience I chose to discuss is that of my oldest son.  I chose this example because it was my first experience and the most frightening one as well.  I went to the hospital for a routine visit the same day my son was due.  My doctor informed me that I had only dialated 1cm and it was not time for me to deliver him.  Well I informed the doctor that I was tired of being pregnant and I wasn't leaving the hospitall without my baby in my arms.  I was told that I would more than likely have to have a c-section.  I was in agreement with that because I was ready for my son to be born.  I was admitted into the hospital and my labor was induced.  Because of my low blood cell count I was not able to have any pain medication.  Actually, the contractions were discomforting but certainly not unbearable.  I was extremely proud of myself. I survived 12 hours of pain, but gave birth to a healthy 7lb 11oz most handsome child you ever wanna see.  The funny part was that I had only dialated 1cm when admitted and told I would have to have a c-section because I probably wouldn't dialate 10cm; my son popped out while I was only 8cm.  Yep, 8 stitches!!!!My thoughts regarding birth are that it isn't as hard or painful as people told me.....obviously, I have had two more and considering a fourth. My husband (no ex) was present during the birth of my son.  I learned that in Canada and many European countries that giving birth is considered a "female event" and husbands are not allowed to participate.  The insight I gained from the comparison is that women in Canada and many European countries should in a sense feel belittled.  Its ok for "both" male and female to engage in sexual activities to create the baby, but the woman has to endure the pain and experience the event alone? Wow!!!!!!!!!!

Ideals significant to me

To appreciate the vulnerability of children and their dependence on adults:  This is meaningful to me because early childhood is a very critical time for young children.  Early childhood professionals have the opportunity to mold the children into life-long learners because they are so eager to gain information.  They are like little sponges absorbing all they can from adults.  I educate teachers to nurture and appreciate their vulnerability, to be a positive role model at all times, and to fill them with as much knowledge as they possibly can.

To create and maintain safe and healthy settings that foster children’s social, emotional, cognitive, and physical development and respect their dignity and contributions:  This is significant to my professional life because this is exactly what I teach other early childhood professionals.  During my mentoring process I supply the teacher with the necessary materials required to foster the children’s social, emotional, cognitive, and physical development.  I provide furniture and rearrange the classroom for a better flow,  more functionality, and promote independence of the children.  All commercial materials such as posters and calendars are removed from the classroom and replaced with work done by the children.  All work displayed on cabinets, backs of shelves, and walls is created by the children.  Allowing the children to do this gives them a sense of accomplishment to see what they have constructed being showcased throughout the classroom. 

To become familiar with the knowledge base of early childhood care and education and to stay informed through continuing education and training:  This is meaningful to me because I believe in “each one teach one”.  It’s true that the more you know the further you will go.  Increasing your knowledge is very important because individuals are always conducting research and new developments are constantly being made in the field of early childhood education.  Attending trainings is also beneficial for networking purposes.  Teachers can collaborate and share new ideas among themselves.