Reflection Blog Post #8

Reflection #8:

• Discuss the parent characteristics, child characteristics, contextual factors, and socio-cultural characteristics that you think may have influenced your parents parenting, or, if you are a parent, discuss which ones currently influence you and how you currently parent your children (pp. 84-87).

For me, the characteristics I inherited from my parents are definitely a mix of their personalities,  I can be a little scatter-brained like my mom sometimes but then sometimes I can be super motivated and dedicated like my dad.  Both of my parents are pretty outgoing and I am too, but it wasn't always that way.  Sometimes, if I feel insecure in a setting, I will be really shy and not talk.  I think when I am difficult to deal with, my mom especially will feel like she failed me.  I didn't know much about housework before I got married and my mom blames herself for that for not teaching me.  This happens when my husband complains about my lack of housekeeping skills.  I have noticed when my husband and I are struggling financially, our kids are very tuned into that.  Everyone in the house is just on edge and cranky all the time.  Our neighbors influence my parenting.

• Then share three ideas that you learned that will support you in working with families within your classroom setting.

I will keep my classroom positive even when children and parents can be difficult to deal with.  I can be a warm, welcoming place for my students and families.  I can set goals and use positive reinforcement when things go a little sideways then we can get back on track.