Parent, Family, and Community Engagement

Parent involvement is essential to the success of children in Early Childhood Education.  When I see stories of how parents and the community become involved in education, it helped me to understand the importance of collaboration and teamwork.  This reminds of a quote that it "takes a village to raise a child".  Clearly parental involvement is important in helping children do well in school.  As a result, educators must be actively involved with parents and develop strategies to engage parents. 

The stories helped me to see the impact that families have on their children's education.  As an early childhood edcuator in Head Start, I have seen the difference that parents make in education.  When parents are actively involved, the children learn at school and at home.  Also, parents can provide information to edcuators that help them better understand the needs of the child.

Quality Programs for All Children

The public view on early childhood education quality has shifted to a view of quality for all children.  Although public opinion wants quality in education programs, the resources to ensure equity and equal access for all children is not in line with public views.  As an educator, I understand the importance of children being exposed to quality early childhood education programs as early as possible.  Children need guidance and direction to ensure that they develop academically.  Therefore, quality programs must address all areas of children's needs to ensure the success of children in the school system.

What Resonates With You About Early Childhood Public Policy and Advocacy?

Part 1: Why did you choose this specialization?

I am in the early childhood education (EC Advocacy Pub Pol) program because I want to create change in early childhood education.  I also realize that policy changes are the best way to create change and to develop best practices for early childhood education.

Part 2: Why are advocates essential in the early childhood field?

Advocates are needed in early childhood education to combat issues that affect children and their families.  Advocates help to create change by lobbying for change in the education system and policies.

Part 3: What do you hope to learn about public policy and advocacy?

I want to learn ways to develop new policies and to create change in early childhood education.  As a result, I believe that I can learn what I need in my program to become a social change agent and a policy maker.