Option 2: Imagine that you possess the means and the knowledge to conduct research studies about any topic in the early childhood field. Imagine further that you are not restricted by the reality of the present. Imagine that your study will make a major positive contribution to the well-being of children and/or their families. What topic would you choose? What can you imagine the positive contribution(s) would be?
If I could choose any topic to research and had no limits to my research capabilities, I would choose to research the impact of raising children at home versus in a daycare setting. The debate between choosing a career over raising children is a topic that I have always been interesting in learning more about. As a former professional (teacher), who had two young children in daycare and gave up my career during the pregnancy of child number three to stay home due to the high cost of daycare, I can see both side of the argument. We loved our daycare and felt that it provided a loving, nurturing, educational setting for our children, but also see the value in them being home with me during their early childhood years.
I would focus my research on the long-term effects and outcomes of children who were raised in a home setting (being cared for by a parent) and those who were cared for in an early childhood setting on a full-time basis. I would look at different characteristics such as attachment, social abilities, educational success, and health issues. I believe that this research could provide valuable information to mothers and families who are having a hard time deciding on the best option for their children. The conclusions of the research could have a great impact on early childhood as it could create a positive light for daycare, or provide the opportunity for changes that could lead to a more home like setting for early childhood programs. I believe the research would have a great impact on children and families who are looking for answers when it comes to daycare versus staying at home.
I believe that I was fortunate to be able to stay at home with my children when they were little. I went back to work for a few months after my first child was born and we had a close family friend watch her while my husband worked. He was self-employed and was often home early, so she was with a parent most of the time. A few months before our second child was born I quit my job and became a stay at home mom. I was able to do that until our youngest entered kindergarten 7 years later. It was during this time that I discovered Head Start and became a volunteer and eventually an employee and now, here I am....working on a Master's degree! I am blessed to have had that time with my children and wouldn't trade it for anything, but I also understand that some parents don't have a choice to be able to stay home and others choose to pursue their career and they shouldn't feel guilty about that. It would be nice for them to understand the benefits of daycare and what to look for in quality care!
ReplyDeleteGreat work Stacy. I do have something to say about children being raised at home versus a daycare, but I do commend you for working with your children at home. I believe that in order for children to be successful as far as being brought up in a daycare or home is that whoever is keeping them throughout the day time nee to be working with them. It's not going to matter where they are if they aren't getting taught things according to their age level. Great blog though and no I'm not talkin about you.
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