In the readings this week Bronfenbrenner’s ecological theory struck me as an interesting theory to be review at this time.  The theory is broken down into the individual, the microsystem, the mesosystem, the exosystem and the macrosystem. These five environmental systems, according to Bronfenbrenner, all have a contributing factor in children’s development. The reason why this is an interesting theory to consider in the midst of the COVID 19 pandemic is because everyone’s social circles have been significantly effected. Families have decreased there contact with people in order to protect those around them but what kind of impact is that having on developing children?  According to Bronfenbrenner’s theory the Microsystem is made up of a child’s family, health services, church groups, school, peers, and neighbourhood play area.  If we only consider this which is the inner most circle closest to the individual themselves,  all of these areas have been effected and in some cases have not existed during the early days of the pandemic.  This inner circle is what “most directly affects development” (Dietze & Kashin, 2016, pg 28) and directly affects children’s environment.  Only time will tell how keeping our circles small will affect children’s development but I thought this was an interesting theory to revisit during the current world climate.

reference: Dietze, B., & Kashin, D. (2016). Empowering pedagogy for early childhood education. Toronto, Ontario. Pearson Education Canada INC.