| Activity 2-2: What I value Most |  |
Purpose: Participants will define their values. They will analyze the link between their personal values and the values of the program. |
Materials:
-
Handout 9: What Are My Values?
Handout 10: Head Start Core Values
Chart paper and markers
- Explain that values are deeply held views that come from many sources.
In a sense, they determine who we are and what we want. Values also help
form the Head Start program's culture. They reflect what we find worthwhile
and fulfilling about working in partnerships with children and families.
Values influence how we relate to each other and how we do our work. Therefore,
if the program is going to meet the needs of families effectively, the values
of agency leaders, the board of directors, policy councils, staff members,
and parents must support the Head Start mission.
Separate Into Groups - Have participants separate into small groups. Distribute Handout 9:
What Are My Values? Ask participants to choose their five most important values from the list. Tell them that they can also add values to the handout. Explain that there are no right or wrong answers.
Work In Pairs - Instruct participants to share their values with the person sitting next
to them, noting the values that they have in common.
Work In Groups - Ask participants to share their values with the other members of their
group.
Reconvene Group
- Ask one person from each group to report the values that the group identified.
Write the responses on chart paper and continue around the room until all
groups report their values. Summarize the responses and note the number
of values that everyone shares.
Lead Discussion
- Use the following questions to compare and contrast personal values with
Head Start values:
- What values are the most important to the program?
- What are the similarities between your values and Head Start's
values?(Distribute Handout 10: Head Start Core Values to
help participants discuss Head Start's values).
- How do your values fit your role in the program?
- Do you experience any differences between your values and Head
Start's values?
- How can you deal with this challenge and still support Head Start's
values?
- How would you describe the culture of your program based on these
values?
- What values are the most important to the program?
- Conclude the activity by making the following points:
- Our values help us see the importance of our work in Head Start.
- Our values affect our commitment to supporting the Head Start mission.
-
When everyone in the program shares values that support
the Head Start philosophy, we can work as a team to achieve our goals.
- Our values help us see the importance of our work in Head Start.
Introduce Activity