I searched online for any websites that remotely had anything to do with the childcare facility, unfortunately what I found was a Facebook page, that hadn't been updated since 2009. Another site was on the Bahamas visiting site which gave a description of the program, which detailed that "This unique school is an option for parents who wish for their children to learn Spanish at a very young age.The school is designed for children ages 1-6 who have no prior knowledge of the Spanish language; it incorporates those who have been exposed to it, and those who speak it. “Chicos Felices”, is a community based program on learning and fun. Bahama Local (2015)
In scanning the centers Facebook page I was able to see pictures of the children/staff and some activities they've participated in such as Community helper week; during that time community members were brought into the center and discussed their roles. It's important to bring this kind of awareness to the children because exposure leads to imagination and offers children avenues to pursue careers of their desires.
I noticed a few differences in the classrooms in the site verse classrooms here in the States. From a couple of the photos I noticed items like clorox wipes out and within a child's reach, chords exposed and hanging freely which can cause a tripping hazard. Lastly, the children's art work appeared to be "ditto sheets" limiting the creativity of the process rather expecting the product. There wasn't an option to sign up for a newsletter however I did add the page.
In thinking about the topic equity and excellence i believe it begins with offering children the absolute best start possible. Doing so needs to be in a space that is safe, enriched with age appropriate materials and surrounded by educators willing to go the extra mile to see that this happens.
Reference
Chicos Felices. retrieved from. https://www.facebook.com/chicos.felices.33/media_set?set=a.1549876766063.58898.1809442305&type=3
Bahamas local. com retrieved from. http://www.bahamaslocal.com/listing_email/14888/Chicos_Felices.html#write_email
Hello,
ReplyDeleteI enjoyed your post. I think it is interesting that there is a school dedicated to helping children so young learn Spanish. I have recently visited the Bahamas and its culture is very fascinating to me. Although it is another country, they speak English very well (at least in the tourist attractions), so for them to also teach Spanish is enlightening because it gives children an asset in their education. As you stated, equity and excellence begins with giving children the best possible start and when children are given opportunities to thrive, success is sure to follow.
Junell
ReplyDeleteHi Ebony,
Great post! You would think that some information is very easy to find but in fact some is challenging and difficult. With that being said the information I found was a little off topic but it was very interesting information that I found and I felt the need to share it. The information did consist of children and how they are being treated in their country. Learning another language is great and it is also great that the parents support the education and development of their children. Thanks for the information I enjoyed it.
Kim
Ebony,
ReplyDeleteGreat post. I have been to the Bahamas and I do not recall seeing a school near any of the places we visited. It is interesting to learn about school in the Bahamas. I hope to hear more about the educational system in the Bahamas as you learn more. I agree that dittos do not allow for child creativity. We just had a training last week on the use of dittos and how they limit children.