Saturday, August 15, 2015

Week 7- Impacts on Early Emotional Development

            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

1 comment:

  1. 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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