Final Draft IJWC Fall 2022 copy 6 Introduction Tiffany Wilson, Editor This Fall issue provides readers with diverse perspectives on a variety of topics including the impact Covid-19 had on pre-service teachers, Korean mothers, and children’s social skills. Moreover, this issue discusses how music can be utilized to increase literacy in the classroom, the benefits of structured and unstructured play, and recommended toys for play. The IJWC continues to be committed to promoting holistic learning and the development of the whole child. Article #1: Possible Selves of Pre-service Elementary School Teachers in the Time of Covid-19 Pandemic: A Sequential Explanatory Mixed Method Study Ceyhun Kavrayici The authors of this study utilized the possible selves theory to examine pre-service elementary school teachers’ understanding of their future potential and its effects on their future orientations. Possible selves theory describes a person’s understanding of themselves in the future based on an understanding of their past and present self. The findings of this study suggest that pre-service teachers have confidence in the teaching profession (professionalism) and expect a collaborative environment (learning to teach). Additionally, they are not afraid of being an uncaring or boring teacher. However, due to the limitations of online learning, they do worry about classroom management. Continued development of pre-service teacher practicum/ observation as well as support in technology and management is necessary for the development of pre-service teacher skills. Article #2: Parenting and Education Involvement of Korean Mothers During the Covid-19 Pandemic Sungok Reina Park, Jeongae Kang The authors of this study examined the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on Korean mothers and children who were separated from their spouses during the lockdowns. Data was collected via a three-interview series model conducted over Zoom. The narrative data support previous findings that education is highly valued in Korean households. Many participants experienced an increase in fear and anxiety around single parenthood and racism. There were varying levels of knowledge of computer usage and teachers’ abilities to deliver curriculum virtually, which led to varying experiences among participants. The relationship between long-distance spouses had varying impacts on stress and anxiety levels. In the future, it will be important for childcare responsibilities to be shared and for an increase in emotional support in long-distance relationships. 7 Article #3 Implementing Phonological Awareness in Saudi Arabia Kindergarten Riham Alsultan The author provides a review of how to integrate phonological awareness into the classroom to support Arabic language development in kindergarten. The importance of rhymes, rhythms, and syllables are addressed. The author recommends that language instructors should continually be educated in the use and importance of phonological awareness. Additionally, it is important to prioritize a holistic approach that differentiates students’ individual needs. Article #4 Discussion-Based Pedagogy to Promote Socio-emotional and Well-being Among Students in Japan Yoko Kitami, Lois A. Yamauchi The authors examine the use of Philosophy for Children to promote socio-emotional learning and well-being in Japan. Philosophy for Children (P4C) focuses on supporting children's search for meaning and their desires for rich and meaningful experiences. Data was collected via the use of emails, analysis of documents, and observations. Educators applied the P4C approach throughout the education system, at the elementary, secondary, and university levels. The findings suggest that P4C addresses the holistic needs of students, as well as the development of strong social and emotional skills and support for those who have experienced trauma. Future research may consider incorporating more synchronous forms of data collection as well as the students’ perspectives. Pictures for Reflection Recommended Toys for the Playroom Hannah Robinson The author provides a recommendation of toys teachers should include their classroom to help children express a range of emotions. Tech Talk Manuscript Destination Adventure: Virtual Field Trips that Won’t Disappear Nancy Caukin The authors explore the use of virtual field trips as a way of engaging students in standards- aligned learning experiences. Virtual field trips utilize technology and augmented and virtual reality to provide students with an opportunity to explore and experience different places and events. Virtual field trips afford students the chance to engage in learning when field trips are not feasible due to logistics, finances, and safety concerns. The benefits of virtual field trips include increased accessibility, exposure to new perspectives, and increased learning outcomes. Finally, the authors provide a list of virtual field trips and notes, including appropriate ages, topics, and supplemental materials. 8 ETC Manuscript Music and Middle School Literacy Sally Busby The authors provide strategies for the incorporation of music in a middle school English classroom. Some strategies include using music from a variety of genres, connecting it to classroom literature (music review), using it in the background, and using it to support writing assignments. The use of music in the classroom allows students to develop critical thinking skills and make connections through their own interests and personal identity. ETC Manuscript Post-Pandemic Teaching in Early Childhood Classroom: Supporting Children’s Social Skills to Enhance Play Experiences Dawnita Gallo This article provides insight into the use of play in the early childhood classroom. The author discusses social, emotional, and cognitive development associated with play, the use of play as a teaching strategy, as well as the effects post-pandemic. The author provides three scenarios outlining the use of scaffolded play with children in block play, games, and in a mud kitchen. The importance of teachers remaining aware that play belongs to the child, and they should not attempt to control their play but rather on how to gain the necessary skills to play and learn is discussed. Children & Families: Health and Wellness Manuscript Adverse Childhood Experiences of Elementary School Students Exacerbated by COVID-19: A Conceptual Framework Tyreeka Williams, Angel Dowden The authors of this article discuss child neglect and maltreatment in elementary school students, focusing on ACEs and providing recommendations and implications for practice. Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) are traumatic events that occur before the age of 18. Through the use of attachment theory, the authors illustrate how an understanding of attachment styles both reflects and relates to one’s psychological state. Through a multilevel systems analysis predictors of child neglect and maltreatment are identified. Additionally, the impact of Covid-19 and research trends are examined. Finally, the author discusses the impact of trickle-down policies that focus on systems and infrastructure to provide families in need with support. STEAM Manuscript STEAM Education and the Whole Child: Examining Policy and Barriers Rachael Pearson The authors examine the policies and barriers that impact the Whole Child STEAM approach. STEAM aligns with the Whole Child approach which recognizes and supports the developmental needs of each child through the tenets of health, safety, engagement, support, and challenge. However, barriers such as funding, curriculum and time restraints, and local and state policies hinder the success of STEAM programs. Addressing these barriers will promote the full 9 execution of a Whole Child STEAM approach that will support divergent thinking skills, interdisciplinary learning, and excitement in children. Education by the Numbers Donald Snead The data provided by the author in “Education by the Numbers” discusses factors that impact education attainment. Emerging Professional Manuscript Let the Games Begin: Why Structured and Unstructured Play Should be Utilized in the Classroom Carleigh Slater The authors of this article explore the use of play and gamification at the elementary, middle, and high school levels. The importance of free play and the use of play-based and game-based learning are discussed. The use of play and gamification can be used for learning as well as assessment using retrieval play and game practices. Finally, barriers to the implementation of play and gamification in the classroom include financial resources and time availability, as well as resistance from people with a more traditional teaching approach. Page Turners: Books for Children Maria Genest, Katrina Bartow Jacobs, Carla K. Meyer, Michelle J. Sobolak, Patricia Crawford In this article, different children’s books are listed with descriptive summaries on each one. The books include: A Bear Far from Home; If You Live Here; Pow Wow Day; Pretty Perfect Kitty Corn; The Queen of Kindergarten; Remembering Ethan; Keeping the City Going; Laxmi’s Mooch; Firekeeper’s Daughter; Let’s Talk About it: A Teen’s Guide to Sex, Relationships, and Being a Human.