The Grand Finale

Consequences of Learning About International Early Childhood  Field

One of the greatest advantages of learning about the international early childhood education field is its multicultural environment. I had the opportunity to get to know other cultures. I developed a sense of awareness and the ability to cooperate with people with different characteristics, customs and cultural norms. As a mindful professional, I learned tolerance, mutual respect, empathy, and understanding of others—their behaviours, motivations, aspirations, and values. These are the type of environment which helps to shape global citizenship and allow you to easily feel comfortable anywhere.

I had the opportunity to compare and contrast high-level, high-quality early care and education, global standards, and rich, culturally diverse environments. Interacting with various resources, listening to podcasts and exploring websites gives me an advantage of the world. I have seen where countries offer near-universal systems that guarantee education and care for young children. For many countries, investments in young children are the mark of prudent thinking and wise resource allocation. Curricula focused on the overall development of each child, including knowledge and academic skills and soft skills and personality, help to educate them into mature and responsible citizens.

The social structure and cultural beliefs of every society are reflected in the broader attitudes of the public and in the ways, government consider the needs of children and their families. Policy-makers, decision-makers, advocates, and other non-governmental organizations have been working assiduously to eliminate some of the challenges children and their families face.

While Exploring Outside Links

Of all the websites I explored, I was extremely impressed with the work of Save the Children.  As the world's leaders in protecting children from the physical and emotional wounds of war, Save the Children has been a lifeline for families fleeing violence in Syria, Venezuela, Myanmar and dozens of other crises worldwide. And as the largest aid organization in Yemen, they have helped 1.7 million children, supported 88 health facilities and 23 hospitals just last year. I was desirous of sharing this information. But, I then remember that I had selected the ZERO TO THREE website to explore. So, here is my opportunity to share this final piece with you.

Syria

For children in Syria who were struggling before the COVID-19 pandemic, things have only gotten worse. After 10 years of conflict and displacement, 12.4 million people, including 6.2 million children, are now struggling to find food. As the pandemic continues, Syrian refugee families are being pushed even further into poverty. As boys drop out of school to help their families survive, they face an increased risk of exploitation by armed groups. Girls in Syria face a high risk of child trafficking and sexual exploitation, including child marriage.

Venezuela

Venezuela remains one of the most dangerous countries for children. Sadly, the country has the highest homicide rates globally - a shocking 24 out of 1,000 children are murdered each year. Hyperinflation, unemployment, food and medical supply shortages, and the resulting malnutrition crisis have sparked a dramatic increase in the number of people leaving Venezuela in desperation. Displacement from Venezuela is among the highest in the world - second only to Syria. Experts warn the number of people fleeing Venezuela could surpass 6.5 million by the end of 2020.
Myanmar

Myanmar, also known as Burma, has vast natural resources, but most of its population is poor, living on less than $2 a day. The country also has a troubled political history, including its unfinished transition from military dictatorship to democratic rule. Today, the military still retains control of many key areas. The new government continues to face challenges in addressing the various problems facing Myanmar’s children, like high levels of poverty, malnutrition, ethnic conflicts, HIV and the lack of quality education.

Yemen

For six long years, children in Yemen have lived through a horrific war. Today, more than 24 million people—including 12.3 million children—need humanitarian assistance and protection. Already weakened health systems across Yemen have been even further devastated by the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, leaving thousands of children and families without the medical attention they need to survive. It's estimated that 16.2 million people in the country will face high levels of acute food shortages, with an estimated 21,000 children at risk of falling into famine.

The Goal of Early Childhood Education and Care

Early childhood care and education (ECCE) is more than preparation for primary school. It aims at the holistic development of a child's social, emotional, cognitive and physical needs to build a solid and broad foundation for lifelong learning and wellbeing.

My Goal

My goal is to continue researching and keeping abreast of what is taking in the international arena related to children and their families. I will allow my passion to be the driving force that guides me into being more tolerant and responsive to the diverse needs of my students.

Bidding Farewell

The past seven weeks have been phenomenal. I really enjoy this course. As it relates to young children, their families, and the early childhood field, the wealth of information gained from this course has surpassed my expectation. The in-depth knowledge and insights gained from the weekly blog assignments, interactive discussions held with my esteemed colleagues and the incredible interactions and interconnection forged with the course materials. In addition, the positive and timely feedback from Dr Russell has expanded my capacity and allowed me to explore new horizons.  For this, I am eternally grateful. Thank you all for sharing this most memorable occasion. My heart's desire for you, my fellow colleagues, is that you continue believing in yourself that you are life-changers, advocates, and professionals who can make a difference. You are equipped, empowered and sanctioned "for such a time as this." It was my pleasure collaborating with you. I wish you all the very best in future endeavours and hope to see you in the next course. Once again, thank you for this unforgettable experience.

References

https://www.savethechildren.net/

https://books.google.com.jm/books?id=zVl8AgAAQBAJ&printsec=frontcover&dq=international+early+childhood&hl=en&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwi6v5z3raXwAhUnmuAKHXX3AH4Q6AEwAHoECAIQAg#v=onepage&q=international%20early%20childhood&f=false


https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0033350608000942