Adding an International Perspective

Adding an International Perspective

                When I began this journey for my Master’s Degree, I thought about where I have been during my 20 plus years in the field and wondered how much more could there be to learn.  The new knowledge I have gained through our coursework during   Issues and Trends in Early Childhood expanded my understanding of the many issues young children face around the world.  I was not able to make a connection with an early childhood professional somewhere else in the world after several attempts but I don’t think that hindered my learning.

                Over the past seven weeks, I became familiar with valuable resources that comprehensively addressed many important issues that affect children in different parts of the world.  The podcasts made available on the World Forum provided a wealth of information.  Several of the podcasts I viewed touched me deeply as I was reminded of some of the horrible conditions families live in.  The work of the government in Tanzania to increase the level of protection for children in terms of abuse was heart wrenching (Smith, A., 2011). I also learned about the positive efforts being made  by government in some of the poorest countries to provide appropriate child care so parents can work.  I found it very interesting that many of the countries of the world place a tremendous value on educating the youngest in their community. It seems to go fare beyond what we do in our country.  There was also a sense of importance given to including parents in their child’s learning on all levels.  Gaining additional knowledge about UNESCO and its services to many countries was important as I continue to become more aware of the issues in the world.

                Personally, this new knowledge has provided me with a different context to understand the importance  of general safety and rights for all children.  A goal for our field related to international issues should be tied to supporting  a level equity for all children to be safe and be given opportunities to learn.

                As we move on to the next course, I want  my classmates know how much hearing about the challenges each of them face within their communities helped me realize it is not just my community that is struggling and that we need to band together to be a strong voice  for the importance of educating  young children. I appreciated everyone’s feedback each week as we discussed the various issues.  The value in what has been shared is immeasurable.  I also want to express my gratitude for the wealth of information that everyone brought to the group each week from their own experiences.    I wish each one of you  many opportunities to continue making a difference in the lives of children and their families.

Reference

Smith A., (2011) Global Development/ the guardian. Retrieved from http://guardian.co.uk/global-                   development/audioslideshow/2011/aug/09/violence-against -children.