International Portal of Teacher Education

Source: Journal of Early Childhood Teacher Education, Volume 31, Issue 1 (January 2010), pages 49 – 62.

The current paper describes challenging practicum situations that provided three early childhood education students with leadership opportunities to promote best practices in child care centers.

Using excerpts from student journals and meetings, the article documents students' initial discouragement at practices observed. The paper also documents students’ inspiration through involvement at an exemplary preschool, encouragement as positive changes emerged, and personal growth through self-assessment and reflection.