CSUCI Early Childhood Studies

Mentor Teacher Session Agenda

“Mentor teachers contribute to the development of effective future teachers of young children. They provide opportunities for students to work directly with young children and a positive setting in which to reflect on practice. In their role as mentors, they model best practices and guide, listen, and counsel. They give students opportunities to observe children, to reflect on their learning, to develop hands-on curriculum, and to plan and implement activities. Mentors support the growth of excellent teachers who in turn will enhance the development and growth of young children and their families (Strader, 2009).”

Mentor Teacher Identity and Beliefs

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• What is your identity?

• 1.Teacher beliefs about child development and learning.
• 2. Teacher beliefs about family-teacher partnerships and community connections.
• 3. Teacher beliefs about assessment.
• 4. Teachers beliefs about developmentally, culturally, and linguistically appropriate practice.
• 5. Teachers beliefs about knowledge, application, and integration of academic content in the early childhood curriculum.
• 6. Teachers beliefs about professionalism as an early childhood educator.

What is a mentor? Trusted counselor or guide

Characteristics of Mentors

• Good listener/sounding board.
• Flexible.
• Value diversity of perspectives.
• Knowledgeable.
• Nonjudgmental.
• Able to give constructive feedback.
• Honest and candid.
• Able to network and find resources.

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Mentorship and Early Childhood Student Teachers (Strader, 2009)

Teachers as Mentors

• Communicate and build positive relationships
• Do direct observations and give feedback
• Model and reflect on their teaching
• Plan and guide

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Mentorship Framework (Adapted from Lux, Bird, Wilson, 2022)

Handbook and Assignments

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Student Teaching