A Pedagogy of Care for Well-Being

• In Event: 73.060 - Roundtable Session 31
  In Roundtable Session: 73.060-7 - The Environment and Its Impact on Early Chidhood

Abstract

This paper presents a model of ‘pedagogy of care for wellbeing’ (PCW) as a reconceptualization of caregiving practice centering on care for children’s wellbeing. The model describes actions and practices in which early childhood professionals engage within the environments, relationships and experiences offered to young children. The PCW is independent of any prescribed model, curriculum, or practice guidelines (e.g., Bank Street, Te Whariki, Montessori, Aistear, Reggio Emilia, Early Years Foundation Stage). Rather, PCW is a model for responsive, ethical and moral caregiving acts through which professionals support young children’s wellbeing. Following presentation of the model, examples are provide then analyzed as illustrations of the model in action. Recommendations for teacher education and research on classroom interactions are discussed.

Authors

• Mary Benson McMullen, Indiana University

• Cary A. Buzzelli, Indiana University - Bloomington

• Na Ra Yun, dongshin christian preschool