This blog marks the final entry for the Issues and Trends
class. It has been an informative and eye opening lesson. I have broadened my
mind set for sure.
For the whole of the course, however, I did not receive any
contact from my international counterparts.
This may be an assignment that needs revised or reconfigured as the
contacts supplied were not of childcare providers or teachers; thankfully there
was always an alternate for it.
I spent a lot of time this course thinking about poverty,
equity, and accessibility in early childhood.
I have always understood the difficulties poverty places on children and
families, teaching at head start has given me the background I needed to be
able to support the diverse needs of families.
I have had an epiphany of sorts though when realizing that here in
America we do not typically see poverty like that that families in
underdeveloped countries do. The international poverty threshold is $1.25 per
day. There is no way I would even be
able to attempt to raise a family on that.
I was familiar with our community resources and agencies that
help those struggling with poverty, so this was not a huge revelation, I did
learn about some national and international agencies that are working to eliminate
issues with quality, access, and affordability.
I was also able to focus on some advocacy efforts—one of my
favorite things! And a goal I will
continue to strive to complete as often as possible. If I can make a difference
in the lives of children in my center, in my community, in my state then who is
to say that I can’t make a difference in the lives of children in another
country?!?
Davey,
ReplyDeleteI have thoroughly enjoyed reading your blog posts! I really like your informal, laid-back approach, as it makes for a fun read! Your posts are always resourceful and passionate, and for that I thank you. I share your plight in not making any connections with an international counterparts--thank goodness we are resourceful learners, huh? I applaud your efforts and passion in addressing local poverty issues in your community. You also mention your desire to address this issue more globally, which could be a very intimidating and overwhelming feat to take on. I would love to support international efforts in addressing this pervasive issue, but I wouldn't know where to begin. What ways would you suggest your colleagues address the issue of poverty on a global scale?