Underlying philosophy of EdPro ’s training resources
Guiding principles
Edpro’s video-based training is built upon on decades of theory and research into how children learn and develop and reflects these widely accepted principles:
- Children are born ready and able to learn.
- They are individuals who develop at different rates.
- Children construct knowledge and learn through active exploration of their
environments.
- Early learning and development are multi-layered and developmental
domains are deeply interrelated.
- Optimal development and learning take place in the context of secure, caring, supportive relationships.
- Families are the primary caregivers and first teachers of their children
- Development and learning are rooted in culture and supported by family.
- Knowledge of child development supports appropriate expectations of children and is critical for early care and education staff.
Strategies and practices
EdPro recognizes that children's social and emotional growth and well being are critical factors in determining how well they are able to succeed. Training resources model and teach the following evidence-based practices that support all domains of learning and development:
- Building trust and creating a safe environment to make way for optimal growth and learning;
- Supporting children's sense of wonder, discovery, creativity and ability by providing a rich environment where they can explore and experiment with a variety of materials and engage with their peers;
- Individualizing teaching strategies to meet children's diverse needs and abilities;
- Using positive guidance and discipline as tools to teach needed skills and confidence;
- Supporting children's skill building in meaningful contexts built around their interests and developmental levels;
- Helping children gain experience and mastery with cognitive tasks, language learning and social situations by prompting, coaching, guiding and encouraging;
- Intentionally and positively describing children's experiences in order to support their growing sense of confidence, motivation and self worth;
- Encouraging a trial and error approach to problem solving, with materials and with peers;
- Developing positive, respectful relationships with parents to build the best support for children at home and at school;
- Working with families to understand each child's unique developmental issues and the influences that affect his or her ability to learn; and,
- Using reflection and planning to continually assess and respond the needs of the group and of individual children.
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