This week I chose to explore Latin America and the
Caribbean. I chose this area of focus because this region is not far from us,
and although we live just north of Latin America and the Caribbean, there are a
lot of people that still deal with corruption, poverty, and war. Children and
families in this region are exposed to violence, exploitation and
discrimination in their everyday lives. Unfortunately, many of these encounters
are taken place within the family, school and community or state institutions (América Latina y el Caribe).
In Latin
America and the Caribbean, there is a high number of children that experience
malnutrition. Malnutrition affects the development of the children well before
birth. However, according to UNICEF, “it is now recognized that the period
between pregnancy and 2 years of age is crucial for optimal growth and
development” (América
Latina y el Caribe). In order to help these deficiencies in this region UNICEF
works to help pregnant women with breastfeeding as well as provide Fortified
Complimentary Foods (ACF), a nutrient dense food and liquid that is supplementary
to breast milk to be given to children. In addition to UNICEF working towards
eliminating the food challenges, they’re are also working towards eliminating gender
disparities in the education system, reducing the infant mortality rate, helping
to improve maternal health, combat HIV/AIDS and other diseases, as well as
providing ways to access safe and clean water.
These challenges might affect
children by their in ability to focus. If children are unable to get an
adequate nutrition this will lead to low energy, interfere with their physical and
mental development, thus hindering them academically and lead them to drop out
of school. If children are dying young they will not be able to experience life
and all that it has to offer. If pregnant mothers are not receiving the
adequate amount of medical attention or nutrition, this can lead to
complications in their childbirth or can negatively impact their unborn child.
As an early
childhood educator I have learned to appreciate all that I have, and to also remember
how grateful I am to teach in a classroom setting with supportive and helping
families. I know not all families can always be there to support their children
within the classroom, however I am thankful for the ones that are able to
always lend a helping hand. In addition, I think it is great how my school does
not necessarily ask for donations, but parents are willing to make donations
whether it is food for snack time or toys, and other educational resources we
could use at the school. I know not every teacher in the world has these
experiences, regardless of what it is we are all here to educate, support, and
challenge our students to prepare them for a brighter future.
References:
América
Latina y el Caribe. (n.d.). Retrieved August 16, 2015, from
http://www.unicef.org/lac/overview_4169.htm
I think when we read stories of other countries we do take a value of what we have and become grateful. My center doesn't ask for donation either, but I do have parents that will bring stuff in for the children in their child's classroom. It's nice how we are a little community. I think the UNICEF is s great website to share with colleagues, so they understand how grateful we are to have the things we need.
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