The Importance of Reflective Practice in Early Childhood Education

Abstract

WHAT IS REFLECTIVEPRACTICE?Reflective practice is an ongoing, dynamicprocess of thinking honestly, deeply and criticallyabout all aspects of professional practice withchildren and families. It occurs spontaneously aswell as in essential planned reflection time. Mostimportantly, reflective practice leads to action.Children’s learning and development is advancedwhen they experience interactions with highlyeffective early childhood professionals. Earlychildhood professionals become more effectivethrough critical reflection and a strong culture ofprofessional enquiry.Effective practice is strengthened when earlychildhood professionals:• gather information and use it to inform, reviewand enrich decision-making, including theviews and perspectives of the children• draw on expertise beyond the team to gainclear and shared understandings and to informnew directions• reflect with children and families ascollaborators to create more inclusiveenvironments to advance each child’s learningand development• collaborate with professionals in otherdisciplines to provide, receive and considermultiple perspectives, encouraging everyperson’s contribution• use sound evidence to inform planningfor children’s progress in learning anddevelopment• apply evidence based practices to advance children’s learning and development• embrace professional learning and skill development that aligns with priorities forsetting, service or network improvement• review and evaluate to inform ongoing improvement• challenge and change some practices to incorporate new understandings intopractice.(VEYLDF, P. 8)