What Resonates With You About Early Childhood Public Policy and Advocacy

"In the field of early childhood education, advocacy is the willingness to take a stand on behalf of children and families that goes beyond common decency or expectations" (Kieff, J, 2009). As an educator and an advocate children, it is important for me to continuously increase my knowledge of the issues and concerns that that regularly affect children and families.  It's also important for me to recognize and understand the different concepts of advocacy and the characteristics that will make me a more effective advocate.

"Advocacy is a proactive stance taken by individuals in response to particular issues that concern them" (Kieff, J., 2009).  Becoming a skill and confident advocate is crucial for early childhood professionals and the field because it puts professionals in a better position to work for children and families on local and national levels.  It allows professionals to make sure that others know the importance of what children need to grow and development, as well as, protect their individual rights and needs.

I hope to learn how advocacy and public policy impacts children and families in both positive and negative ways.  I also hope to learn how to become a more effective advocate for children and families by learning from others and by learning how I can increase my advocacy efforts for children and families.  Also, I hope to develop ongoing resources and support that will allow me to become a more effective advocate for the early childhood field.

Kieff, J. (2009). Informed advocacy in early childhood care and education: Making a difference for young children and families. Upper Saddle River, NJ: Pearson Education, Inc