If we are to “holistically” assess children, then we must assess the child as a “whole”. This includes all factors and influences that have the potential to progress or disturb the health, development, and well –being of children. I believe that the living environment, level of academics, medical status, and societal models should be measured because they are directly/indirectly interconnected to the child. These are all key components in every child’s life that can carry a major effect on them. A child’s living environment is the first source of development, as parents being their first teachers. Lack in this setting, such as nutrition, disconnected utilities, resources, or protection, can contribute to malnourishment and maltreatment. In my opinion, factors at home directly affect behavior in the learning institution. Academic evaluations are proper when determining whether brain maturation and learning is occurring at normal level. The results from this assessment can either excel the child or proceed with the necessary services required for any discovered challenges. Health assessments insure that children are healthy and growing properly. It can also expose many forms of abuse in situations where children are afraid to disclose this tragedy to anyone. Prominent figures in a child’s life are considered to be the ones that they interact with on a daily basis. This web of supporters must do just that, support them. Individuals such as family members, friends, and coaches should display a positive influence rather than corrupt them with negative ones. If these components are properly assessed, then “holistically” the child is bound for success both now and in the future.
Children around the world are assessed in different ways. As I was engaged in research pertaining to this topic, I was able to acquire a list of assessment tools utilized by pediatricians in Canada concerning the different ways they assess and evaluate the health, development, and well-being of their school-aged children. Included in this resource file is an array of specialized evaluations that range from socialization to self help, and everything else in between. Please click on the link to access this file, as it is substantially filled with resourceful testing methods and tools for assessing children.
Additionally, as educators, it in the best interest of our children that we recognize these factors and put forth our best efforts to help families maintain stability for children by utilizing the information from these assessments and becoming a resource in providing the necessary assistance to insure overall success.
Resource: http://www.med.unc.edu/ahs/physical/files/school-based-pt-docs/Ped%20Assessment%20Tools.pdf
I agree that children need more positive influences and less of the negative ones. This is critical for self-esteem and confidence which will help a child succeed in life. Those who are surrounded by negativity will undoubtedly have low self-worth and will not live up to their full potential.
ReplyDeleteHi Lynn, I don't believe that adults truly know how much influence and impacts they have on the lives of children. How we behave, what we say, do, and respond reflects from us into the lives, attitudes, and minds of children. So we must be mindful that our leadership is powerful and positive.
ReplyDeleteI agree, holistically assess the whole child to find out if they have any disabilities. Because the child may have a hidden disability and by assessing them you can learn their weakness and strengths.
ReplyDeleteIt is so true that a child’s living environment is the first source of development. Parent's are their child's first teacher. Children living in poverty, with disconnected utilities, poor housing and lack of food or resources are factors that directly affect behavior in the learning institution. It is important that these circumstance are assessed, for a true assessment.
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