The Political Will to Improve Early Child Care

During this week’s studies I have been examining the Pre-Kindergarten strand of the Early Child Care System.  What I have learned throughout this experience is that there are many advocacy groups and organizations that have an interest in improving the early learning programs in America.  The two most influential groups in my opinion have been the researchers on child development and best practices, and the support of the educators across America.  These two groups, along with many others, have worked hard to show Congress and the American political system just how important it is for young children to have a high quality early child care program to attend.  The foundation of a child’s learning is constructed during these very important years, however over the last few decades the American economic and social status has made it virtually impossible for parents to provide their children with the basic needs they require, much less their developmental needs.  Parents are in no position to provide the learning experiences children need to develop cognitively, physically and socially. 

As I researched the NC Pre-Kindergarten program I was able to review the website of the Children’s Defense Fund.  On this site I was able to view a link for Advocates and Family Resources.  Earlier in our program I was concerned that I had not gained a good understanding of the Advocacy strand of the program. On this link there was a list of organizations and programs that are influencing the policies that are currently being made.  I have been a follower of the Harlem Children’s Zone for the last few years and I was aware of the work that they are doing in their community.  However, I never considered the fact that they are advocates for children everywhere and are advocating for the necessary changes that are needed to improve not only their own programs, but the programs everywhere.   Pre-K Now and Educator Sector are two other groups that I will be investigating to find out more about. 

As an educator I feel very strongly about what can be done and what needs to be done to improve the opportunities that children have.  I feel frustrated and lost at times as to what I can do on a larger scale to help improve the lives of children. This link has helped to give me at least a few options to research to see if they are options for me to become a more active advocate for children.

Children’s Defense Fund

http://www.childrensdefense.org/policy-priorities/

http://www.childrensdefense.org/policy-priorities/advocate-family-resources/child-advocacy-groups/early-childhood-development.html