Upon completion of your interview, write a paper that includes each interview question along with a summary of the professional's answers.
You should also include a two or three paragraph conclusion describing what you learned during the interview. Your final interview should be between 5-7 pages in length. Remember, this is an in-depth interview, not a series of brief questions.
As with other written assignments, all work must be in compliance with university academic standards and formatting rules of the American Psychological Association (APA) - 6th Edition.
The paper should:
· List each question with a summary of the professional's answers
· Include two or three paragraphs at the end describing what the student learned during the interview
· Be 5-7 pages in length
Interview
Interview questions for a child and/or family development professional
Interviewed: Laura Taylor
Professional title: Classroom Instructional Support at Ben Franklin Early Learning Center
1. How has the child and/or family development profession evolved over years?
"Many things have changed in the child and family development profession over the years. With the knowledge of how essential early intervention is the stakes have been raise significantly. The expectations of child care professionals are vast. They must be educated, have legal clearances, and be able to keep up with the fast paced demands of the classroom. This is relatively new practice, these high standards in child care due to the federal laws protecting children."
2. What is the role of a child and /or family development professional in the education system?
"The child and family development professional must provide a safe and enriching environment for the children under their care. They must also keep families informed and encourage them in matters dealing with their children."
3. What are the role of the child and /or family development professional in the recreational activities of children?
"Their role in recreational activities is to keep children safe while allowing them to exercise their bodies. This would include inspection the area used for activities to ensure there are no dangers for the children. Also they must supervise carefully so all children should be in sight. The can also assist children in activities they cannot do in their own yet but are interesting to them."
4. Is there a professional body that certifies practitioners in the field?
A child development associates or CDA can be obtained from the state in which the professional is a resident. There are online programs that are offered by different agencies."
5. What is the average pay for professionals in the field?
"Child care professionals can make as little as 15k/year to 28k/year. Which is too little even one the high end considering the job they are doing."
6. What are the major challenges working with children as a child and/or family development officer?
"There are many Challenges child development professionals face daily. Including being pulled in many directions. The many different levels and needs of their children. Following best practices even if they do not agree with them. Working with the many other staff members in the room and sharing responsibilities. Dealing with a variety of personalities of parents. Having time to complete planning and observation within their allotted time. Following state and federal regulations."
7. How can one overcome these challenges?
"To overcome these challenges I suggest talking, taking deep breaths, know when to ask for help, and keep focus on the children's needs above all else.
8. What is the most encouraging thing to work as a child and/or family development professional?
"The most encouraging thing about this profession is knowing that you are one person that is supportive and a good role model for each of your children. You are making a difference in their life and that difference may change who they become."
9. What are the vital traits and skills that one wishing to join the field should possess?
"To work in this profession it is vital to possess patience above all but it is also important to have a caring personality and high energy level. Enjoying time spent with children does not hurt either."
10. What advice would give to someone interested to train as a child and/or family development professional?
"My advice to someone interested in becoming a child development professional would be to learn as much about development and behavior as possible. This information will help them to understand children and their needs more clearly."
11. What is your title, can you explain your title and responsibilities?
"My title is Classroom Instructional Support. My duties include assisting the teaching staff of Early Head Start with any needs they may have. These needs may include things like help with transitioning toddlers, avoiding behavior triggers, following procedures in the classroom, planning, and much more."
12. What education and experience is required for your position?
"I have a dual degree in Early Childhood and Special Education as well as 10 years of experience with children."