Getting Ready—Expanding Horizons and Expanding Resources

As I begin to explore websites and articles focusing on local and global issues in early childhood, my goal is to become more knowledgeable and understanding of the perspectives others as it pertains to the issues and trends in the early learning education setting. With this expansion of knowledge on these issues in my field, opportunities will be made available to formulate and come up with various strategies to bring about change.

In researching the available resources and various website that relate to my field, two sites were presented and stood out to me. The Global Fund for Children and Save the Children; where both foundations have missions where they “are focused on improving the lives of young children and their families worldwide” (Laureate Education, Inc. (Executive Producer). (2011). Issues and trends in the early childhood field. https://class.content.laureate.net/)

As I delve into these two sites; it’s “best to know specific ways in which each organization supports the early childhood community and the resources it offers to those in their community” (Laureate Education, Inc. (Executive Producer). (2011). Issues and trends in the early childhood field. https://class.content.laureate.net/)

In preparation for this blog and after researching and the two organizations, I was drawn to the organization, Save the Children. Why? Well, I’m glad you asked. One of their commitment goals is to give “all children the best chance for the future they deserve – a healthy start in life, the opportunity to learn and protection from harm” (Laureate Education, Inc. (Executive Producer). (2011). Issues and trends in the early childhood field. https://class.content.laureate.net/)

Another reason I was drawn to them is because many people love to go on Mission Trips to foreign countries but there are those children who need the help right in our own backyard. An elder from my church always says, “In order to see the change we want to see, the change must begin with me.”

Additionally, this organization also provides other ways to help the cause by volunteering your time, if you don’t have the monetary means to support their mission. You can also fundraise, participate in upcoming events, and advocate on behalf of the children.

Some other websites and other resources that can be beneficial to edcuctors and those in the early education field are:

• Zero To Three: National Center for Infants, Toddlers, and Families
• National Black Child Development Institute
• National Institute for Early Education Research
• National Institute for Early Education Research (Newsletter)
• The National Association for the Education of Young Children

Another favorite would be Zero to Three: National Center for Infants, Toddlers, and Families. Their mission “is to ensure that all babies and toddlers have a strong start in life. At ZERO TO THREE, we envision a society that has the knowledge and will to support all infants and toddlers in reaching their full potential” (Zero to Three, http://zerotothree.org)

I definitely look forward to learning more about this organization and what they offer and how they can service communities in need of support. And if there’s anything I can do to help them get closer to bridging the gap, I’m willing to help were I can best serve.

Resources:

Laureate Education, Inc. (Executive Producer). (2011). Issues and trends in the early childhood field. https://class.content.laureate.net/

Save the Children: A U.S. based non-profit organization working on behalf of children worldwide. http://www.savethechildren.org/site/c.8rKLIXMGIpI4E/b.6115947/k.8D6E/Official_Site.htm

The Global Fund for Children: An organization which provides capital to communities worldwide to improve the lives of children. http://www.globalfundforchildren.org/