The two early childhood organizations I selected and have been involved with did not supply areas for me to be able to complete this week’s blog, therefore, I reviewed www.savethechildren.org and through outside links was able to learn that this organization, with the assistance of Representatives Lowey and Reichert, introduced new legislation (Education for All Act of 2011) that would help reduce the number of out-of-school children, mostly in war torn and developing countries, and increase early learning opportunities. If the legislation passes, it would give these children the prospect to learn, grow throughout their lifetime.
Throughout the site there were many people spotlighted for contributing to the cause of early childhood (Supermodel Iman campaigning for the millions of people, most of them innocent children, suffering in East Africa due to a water shortage or the Philanthropist, Charlie Wittmack who is raising funds for the 37,000 newborns and young children who die yearly from largely preventable causes). I was able to actively participate in the blog and follow along as American Mom traveled to Kenya and witnessed the devastation of the young children and families that let an everlasting impact on her life. She is now dedicated to advocating and saving the children within the country.
As we have been studying the importance and essentiality of early learning, www.savethechildren.org stressed that this is one of the smartest investments that we, as a civilization can make. Children should not be playing catch-up when they enter kindergarten, as they so often do. If we want greater success later and a better skilled workforce, we need to guarantee the appropriate development of our most at-risk children at early ages. With the help of this organization, rural communities across America will ensure that children living in poverty have a fair opportunity from the beginning.
I was appalled as I read about the millions of children, in 30 developing countries, longing to fulfill their dreams of getting an education, as youngsters and being able to create and provide positive influences within their family unit. We must stop the national and global cuts for educational funding, which reduces the options of countless boys and girls at getting a quality education. Without adequate funds and ample resources we impede the development, learning and creativity of our forthcoming generation.
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Terri,
ReplyDeleteI think it is easy for us to forget what happens in other countries and even in our own countries when we do not see it first hand. The American mother that traveled to Kenya will never forget what she saw and will be able to raise awareness to others! I was unaware of the need for families in my own area until I had to find resources for this class. I have driven by the food banks and the line to get in is so long it brings tears to my eyes. The church across the street from my house is handing out free backpacks and school supplies for children today. I spent $100 on my children's school supplies and for someone who does not have that extra money but wants their child to start school with the same supplies as everyone else, this church is filling a valid need in our community. The line to get into the church wraps around the block and those volunteers will be there for hours today filling the need of the children. I think it is very easy to get stuck in our situations, our own worries and our own stresses and we tend to forget that so many others out there have a much greater need and they need our help. Thank you for your post!
Terri
ReplyDeleteI am glad you chose a website that touched on the challengs of children and families from rural communities. In Indianapolis, it seems like everyone focuses on the issues of poor minority children in urban schools. They do not consider the challenges of children and families in rural communities. There are inequities which affect children in both rural and urban communities.
Terri-
ReplyDeleteIt sounds like you hit on a great site. The fact that there is some legislation out there to help families get children in school is awesome. It is really hard to read about the differences and the hardships other countries deal with. As well as the inequalities in education between boys and girls. I wish the children in the US realize how lucky they are to get a good education. Thank you for sharing this site.
Terri,
ReplyDeleteParents should educate their children by helping their children with quality education because when children are not prepared and do not know enough they will struggle with school all through their life and will not be able to meet up with their peers.