Date of Award
6-30-2021
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Arts in Education
Department
Education
Program
Early Childhood Education
Capstone Instructor
Dr. Kelly Sadlovsky
Second Reader
Professor Elisabeth Amirahmadi
Keywords
resilience, early childhood education (ECE), holistic education, child development, mental health
Abstract
Resilience is the capacity to thrive in, rather than just survive stress and adversity (Ernst et al., 2019). Supporting children to develop resilience is an essential part of holistic developmentally appropriate practice within the field of Early Childhood Education because an improved capacity for resilience benefits other domains of education and wellness (Center on the Developing Child at Harvard University, 2011). Studies on resilience in early childhood education were examined to identify and explore protective factors, classroom strategies, and home relationships that contribute to an increased capacity for resilience in young children. In addition, position statements and articles from early childhood professional bodies were used to offer relevant context within the field. The research offered many practical ideas and strategies for educators to nurture resilience within their classrooms and extend opportunities for academic and personal growth of each individual child. Through a holistic vision of early childhood education, a deep comprehension of resilience theory, and developmentally appropriate action to strengthen resilience protective factors, educators can foster resilience in the rising generation. Future research on long-term effects of these tools will offer a more comprehensive perspective of what strategies are most effective and sustainable.