Consequences of learning:

Consequences of learning:

What an interesting statement. As I reflect on my quest to connect with early childhood professionals from outside the US, I learned about many different agencies and incentives. 

Three consequences:

1. I learned about advocacy programs, which have the same passions toward promoting quality, assessable, and affordable early childhood experiences for young children.   I enjoyed reading about initiatives taking place in far off countries.  I felt optimistic about the future of children and families throughout the world.

2. I have gained a greater appreciation for advocacy efforts.  It is not difficult to spread the word about quality. I advocated for quality early childhood care and education by, posting on my Facebook page a message to all my Republican friends and family. The message was to encourage them to research the ECE position the current nominees running for the Republican Party.  My sister got offended by telling me I should send it to all friends and families, not just Republican.  I told her that my Democratic friends and family only have one person running.  Analysis shows that Rick Santorum opposes early education as part of the public school system, and supports publicly funded vouchers for education. Mitt Romney believes government should be involved in education at the K-12 level and encourages the growth of charter schools. Rep. Ron Paul has said that the government should stay out of education policy, and is a strong proponent of homeschooling. Gingrich seems to remain consistent with what he said in 2009 -- he would be lobbying for funding to be designated for early childhood education to address the cycle of poverty. I personally was shocked when I read the position of Rick Santorum in an article on Care to Make a Difference.

3. I have become a bit frustrated with the politics of governmental agencies. I was shocked that Ireland could not share their hopes and dreams. In a “free” country, how can a person’s opinions be inappropriate to share?  How can someone who is sharing his or her hopes and dreams, be anything other than a positive expression?  Even though I consider myself very worldly, I guess I was very naive about people’s fears. This consequence was my most exasperating.

I think the most important goal, we can have as early childhood professionals is to band together to spread the word everywhere and  at every possible opportunity of the effects of quality early childhood care and education.   The goal to advocate for change starts with our own personal and professional journey. We must open the window for all children.