Research that Benefits Children and Families— Option 2

If I could choose any topic to research in the early childhood field, it would be parent involvement in their child’s education.  As a former Pre-K teacher, I struggled with this issue.  I had parents on both sides of the spectrum.  I had parents who were eager to volunteer in the class.   These parents were the ones who asked for extra activities to work on at home.  I also had parents who told me that they really thought I was just babysitting their child until they saw the work that I was sending home.  My class lacked parent volunteers in the classroom and on field trips.  I think the busyness of American parents has led to a decreased interest in their children’s education.

However, I do believe that parent involvement in a child’s education offers a lot of positive contributions.  The first thing I see is that when parents are involved, the children are eager to do better and succeed.  The parents become a positive role model, and the child’s grades are typically higher.  Young children are eager to do whatever it takes to please their parents as well as tend to mimic their behaviors. At the beginning of the school year, I can tell which children have been read to and who has not just by their simple interest in books.   The second positive thing I have witnessed is that parents are able to help their child advance.  I had students who could not recognize their letters and numbers, so I sent home flashcards for their parents to work with.  After Christmas Break, I had nearly all of my students on track thanks to the parents who devoted some time to their child’s educational needs.  Parents tend to forget that their child’s teacher is just one person trying to meet the needs of 20 students at the same time, so it is really important that parents know that they need to help reinforce material that is being taught at school.  There are many positive contributions that occur when parent’s become involved in their child’s education, but these two examples are just to name a few. 

My Personal Research Journey

            My research topic is on the importance of play in early childhood.  We discussed this topic during our Child Development course, and I have been very intrigued since.  Childhood obesity is such a big epidemic today that Mrs. Obama has taken this issue on firsthand while her husband is serving his presidency.  The lack of play at home and in the classroom is in my opinion the biggest reason why our country is struggling with childhood obesity.  I also feel that children are missing out on the opportunity to be a kid and do what comes naturally to them which is playing. 

            My personal experience does play a part in this simulation process.  Before we moved to Korea, my husband and I were both working like many American families do today. At the end of the day, we were both exhausted and did not want to take our youngest son to the park or outside to play catch.  The previous courses have really opened my eyes to see the importance of play.  As a teacher, I know that play gives children the chance to re-enact what they have learned and gives them a chance to apply their new knowledge as well.  Today, I do make time for my son to play on the playground and make new friends. 

            So far, I have gained one resources for my topic of Play and I have learned new terminology. The discussion board assignment earlier this week allowed me to become more knowledgeable about finding quality research, and so far I have one article from PBS Kids.   The chart for our first application this week has also made me aware that researchers have their own language. I am really learning a lot about research that I did not know after spending four years in college!  If anyone has any resources or insight into this topic of Play in early childhood, please do share.