You have been studying the ways that family, school, and community—d efined both narrowly and broadly—i nterrelate to influence the development of children. Your textbook terms this socialization—i.e., a reciprocal, dynamic process “by which individuals acquire the knowledge, skills, and character traits that enable them to participate as effective members of groups and society” (Berns, 2013, p. 6). As you take this time to reflect on what you have learned in the course, consider the agents of socialization that you have studied and how they are inextricably linked. Ask yourself: How has this study of human ecology underscored the vital importance of early childhood professionals—t he role that you are working to attain?

Learning Objectives

A student will:

• Reflect on and synthesize learning with regard to the influence of families, schools, and communities on the socialization of young children

nstructions

Reflection

Based on what you have learned throughout the past 5 weeks, summarize:

• At least two insights you have gained with regard to the impact of parents, families, early childhood care and education, and community on children’s development

• How the information you learned and evaluated in developing one of your Action Plans will impact the way you view and support the children and families with whom you work

• Your thinking with regard to the relationship between the role of a child and family advocate and that of an early childhood professional