LPM1-A1

Purpose of Assignment: Students will demonstrate their understanding of the Family Systems theory by reflecting on their own families then describe how their family functions using each system in the family systems theory.

Instructions: An important part of this course involves taking time to identify your personal beliefs and culture so that you can better understand how they affect your decisions involving family and early childhood education. Review the assigned readings to prepare for the assignment.

For this assignment, write a 1-2 page reflection using proper spelling and grammar. Be sure to describe your family’s system by addressing the following:

Define your Personal Family System. In an introductory paragraph, define the Family Systems Theory. Describe how a child’s family system can influence his/her development (for example his/her behavior or relationships with others). In the body of your paper, describe your family system by describing your family’s:

Boundaries

Roles

Rules

Hierarchy

Climate

Equilibrium

After defining your Personal Family System, discuss how it influences your view of what family means.

Finally, in your conclusion paragraph discuss why it is important for you to know about your Personal Family System. Explain how you would use your knowledge of the Family System Theory to meet the needs of children and families in a family-centered care and education setting.

Define Personal Family System

40% of total grade

Mastery: Advanced or exceeds achievement

The introductory paragraph includes a thorough, accurate definition of the Family Systems Theory and an effective example of its influence. Detailed descriptions of the six characteristics are included to illustrate your family’s system effectively.

Influence of Personal Family System

25% of total grade

Mastery: Advanced or exceeds achievement

Paragraph with a clear, detailed description of what family means and how that meaning is influenced by your personal family system.

Use of Knowledge

25% of total grade

Mastery: Advanced or exceeds achievement

A clear, detailed explanation of the importance of having knowledge of one’s personal family system. Detailed example illustrates how that knowledge would be used to meet children’s and families’ needs in an early childhood setting.

Professional Presentation

10% of total grade

Mastery: Advanced or exceeds achievement

No errors in spelling grammar and/or mechanics. APA formatted (title page provided).