week 2

This weeks video resources talked about the five sectors of early childhood devlepment.   All of the sectors focus on the equal and appropriate education for underpriveledge pre school age children.  They all believe at the core that without precise researched early childhood education the overall academic and social development of the child can be hindered.  The five different sectors are Head start, Child Care, Health and Well Being, Research and Public Early Childhood Education.  President Johnson founded head start in 1965.  The initial measure was to ensure pre school children with education no matter their socio or economic situation.  It was established to help even out the gaps in early education as so that all children can have the same opportunities to obtain the most effective base for future educational endeavors.  Child Care programs are focused on providing a full range of services to underprivileged children in order to help facilitate an atmosphere that is safe and conducive to learning.  The Health and well-being Sector focuses on the physical health of children that are living in poverty conditions.  This includes insurance (CHIP), wellness visits and preventive care to help deter future issues.  The Research division is the backbone to many of these programs.  Research helps provide tangible evidence that certain processes are effective and should be further studied and developed.  Increased recognition in the fields of medicine, neuroscience, sociology, anthropology and economics all concur that a healthy child development is key to satisfaction in school and in life.  The Public Early childhood education sector focuses on setting up different partnering programs that all focus on the education of pre school children.   I think if our country is going to gain the status that it once held in the realm of education that investments in the early childhood development field is imperative.  As the theme of the three little pigs taught us, only something built on a sound foundation will prove to be truly effective. 

week 1 -Early childhood Systems

I chose the specialization of public policy and advocacy because I believe that it is important for everyone to have a voice.  In order to have a voice you have to be informed as to what you are entitled to.   For the last six years I have taught in a middle school in North Philadelphia.  Many times during the day I wonder what many of these students would be like if they had attended an effective pre school program.  Effective early childhood development is a paramount component in the intricle cycle of overall growth.  I hope to be able to better educate both the family and communities on the rights and accommodations  that every child deserve.  Advocating for the rights of children is imperative because so many children just past by their early years unrepresented. 

I hope to be able to further my knowledge on public policy and in turn use this knowledge to be the most effective advocate.