Three international organizations that appeal to me are:
World Forum Foundation whose mission is to “promote an on-going global exchange of ideas on the delivery of quality services for young children in diverse settings” (World Forum Foundation, 2015, para. 1). More than 500 professionals from the early childhood field representing 80 countries meet every two years to exchange ideas regarding quality services for children and their families. Every other year early childhood professionals have regional meetings (World Forum Foundation, 2015). I like that professionals from different countries, with different perspectives meet and share ideas. There is always room for improvement in the early childhood field and I believe that improvement start with ideas.
Association for Childhood Education International (ACEI) aims to promote the well-being of the child in a changing world (ACEI, 2011). In order to achieve this it ”support[s] and advocate[s] for access to education, equity in educational settings, quality educational content, and the child's right to education” (ACEI, 2011, para.1) It aims to translate global initiatives in a manner that addresses local needs (ACEI, 2011). As the world changes, oftentimes the way we do things need to change with it. I like that this organization embraces change and wants to ensure that children do not get left behind but still receive quality education in an equitable environment.
Division for Early Childhood (DEC) aims to support families and young children (0-8) who have disabilities and or gifts and talents through policies and evidence-based practices (DEC, n.d). I like that this organization supports this specific group of children and their families.
Some job opportunities that interest me and the skills needed for them are:
Social Worker- I would have to collaborate with families, therapists and other personnel to assist infants and toddlers with special needs (DEC, n.d). I would need a master’s degree in social work, be eligible for a license in Hawaii and possess an eligible driver’s license (DEC, n.d).
Child Life Specialist- works with outpatient and hospitalized pediatric patients (DEC, n.d). This includes helping patients to handle any emotions that results from hospitalization or any outpatient procedures. This position requires a bachelor’s degree in child development, recreational therapy, special education, early childhood development or any other closely related field; eligibility for Child Life certification; computer skills; and expertise in child life skills and practices (DEC, n.d.)
Speech-Language Pathologist- I would be able to work at preschools and provide home based interventions (DEC, n.d). I would also provide screening, assessments, treatment, consultation and collaborate with parents and other specialists. This position requires a master’s degree in communication disorders. Pediatric or early childhood experience is preferred (DEC, n.d).
References:
Association for Childhood Education International. (2011). Retrieved from http://acei.org/about-us/about-acei.html
Division for Early Childhood Education. (n.d.). Retrieved from http://www.dec-sped.org/pd
World Forum Foundation. (2015). Retrieved from https://www.worldforumfoundation.org/about-us/
Hi Karina,
ReplyDeleteThe organizations you researched sound amazing. I was truly inspired by the information you presented on the World Forum Foundation. I cannot imagine being part of something so large, 500 professionals from 80 countries exchanging ideas, it must be quite the learning experience for individuals that are chosen to be part of it. All of the positions you chose would be such a wonderful contribution to children. Any organization would be lucky to have you! Thank you for sharing!
Hi Karina, You chose some great job opportunities. I especially like the Child Life Specialist position. I was a nurse (in another life) and have often thought I would like to get back into the medical community. A position like this would be a great way to do that. Thanks for sharing!
ReplyDeleteHi Karina
ReplyDeleteI really enjoyed reading you blog. The World Forum Foundation sounds great place to work and being able share ideas and network with colleagues all over the world sounds awesome. The opportunities are endless. Thanks so much for sharing.
The World Forum Foundation is a group I researched in this project as well and was very impressed with what they did, although I had not heard of them before now. I also researched ACEI, although I did not choose to write about them this time, but did subscribe to some of the their information.
ReplyDeleteYou mentioned a Child Life Specialist for DEC. This is something I became interested in a few weeks ago with a more local organization. I have looked into the criteria for getting the certification to be able to do this. I think it is a wonderful opportunity. Kelly