These theories have a significant impact on current practices in ECE. According to Erikson, at the first stage, children learn whether or not they can trust the world (Berk & Meyers, 205). Children receive care from their caregivers to form trust, so the quality of the care is crucial in the forming of the childs personality (Malone, Liu, Vaillant Rentz, & Waldinger, 206). For this reason, caregivers need to attend to childs needs quickly and be sensitive. For example, sometimes a baby gets some response from a caregiver by crying, so the caregiver needs to know the babys need while the baby is crying and respond fast. The baby may need food, changing diapers, or a warm cuddle. When a caregiver provides an appropriate response to a babys cries, a foundation of trust is built. When the babys needs are consistently satisfied, the baby will learn that he can trust the people who are caring for him. If these needs are not consistently met, the child will begin to mistrust the people around him or her. Children at the second stage want to decide for themselves, and they build a sense of control over themselves as well as some basic confidence in their own abilities (Berk & Meyers, 205). Caregivers can provide opportunities for children to foster their independence by permitting children to make food, clothing, and toy choices and helping them stop worrying. Toilet training also takes on an important role; learning to control ones body functions leads to a feeling of control and a sense of independence. In this stage, reassuring children and having faith in their abilities is important to the development of a sense of autonomy a
nd confidence. The third stage occurs from ages 3 to 5. During this stage, children begin to affirm their power and control over the world by playing activities, completing tasks, and overcoming difficulties (Berk & Meyers, 205). The main element is imagination. A sense of purpose develops when a child can envision something in her imagination and pursue it. These perceptions give kindergarten some idea. For instance, provide enough space for children to express their imagination by playing with natural materials and role-playing. Some daycares make circle time to read stories and sing a song that can stimulate childrens imagination. Hence, caregivers need to encourage exploration, help children make appropriate choices, provide opportunities and room to show their imagination and initiative.
Although Eriksons theories have many influences and impacts on current practices in ECE, the first three stages are basic of all. Maria Montessori (870-952), a teacher and a doctor from Italy, is one of the forerunners of early childhood education. She established the Montessori educational method in 907. It aims at developing childrens senses, academic skills, practical life skills, and character- is the worlds oldest extant early childhood curriculum model and is used today by Montessori teachers throughout the world (Lunenburg, 2000, p. 522). The Montessori educational methods were developed founded on five premises: Respect for the child, The Absorbent Mind, The Sensitive period, The prepared environment, and Auto-education (David, 206). Each of the premises has greatly influenced the current practice of early childhood education.