Mellia reading a storybook before the activity. Photo taken by Nanik
At Joglo Preschool – Peace Place Pati, I learned to observe children’s sensory-motor development and social development, especially observing how children communicate with friends who are different in development. When problems occur, sometimes I use a group counseling model. But after getting to know the AVP Justice and Peace tool, I started collaborating with it.
During teacher meetings, we discuss child development and encourage each other to support child development as well as teacher development. I really enjoy this learning process. In addition, every two weeks the teachers regularly consult with Raleigh, a specialist from Fulbright to support steps in helping children. We practice what we have discussed and share the process at the next meeting. When discussing sensory diets, which is one way to help children who self-harm, I felt challenged to learn more. I am grateful for the time and the valuable knowledge shared.
In college, I studied counseling with a group model and many counseling models for children with special needs. I learned Gestalt counseling theory and Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy Theory, called REBT, which is a cognitive behavioral approach that emphasizes the relationship between feelings, behavior and thoughts. I pay attention to how the child’s feelings, behaviors and thoughts work. I learned not to challenge their thoughts, but to recognize their development and validate their thoughts.
At Joglo Preschool, I was able to expand my knowledge. The approach is humanizing, where children are empowered, recognized, and enabled regardless of their abilities. Children are given the opportunity to develop themselves and determine what they want based on their abilities. The Classroom Culture curriculum that guides Joglo works strongly to humanize people and nature, practicing life values that are continuously built through play activities, with the big goal of preparing children to be able to manage themselves so that they can be accepted in the social environment.