My Website of Choice and Article Response

National Black Child Development Institute
http://nbcdi.org/

While researching, I found an organization that I was unfamiliar with; I had never heard of the National Black Child Development Institute (NBCDI). This institute was established over forty years ago; “It improves the quality of life for children and families through advocacy and education” (NBCDI, 2014). During the time where civil rights were an issue, this organization was established by a black women’s foundation, in efforts to overcome racial discrimination and poverty issues. Its mission is to help, strengthen, and advocate for black children who are directly impacted by the issues within their family and community. The NBCDI focus on issues directly related to “The child’s welfare, literacy, health, early childhood education, and family engagement” (NBCDI, 2014); if all of these things are supported, then a child and their families will be more successful in life. The vision of this institute is to make sure all of these children are successful in all they do.

I viewed many tabs under this site; I found several new letters and articles published by the institute and its supporters. The article I choose to discuss is one regarding how prek-3rd grade can be a smart strategy for black children, families and communities. The beginning of the article, discussed how to close the achievement gaps between races. It was passionate about how some children score higher on test than others. It particularly highlighted how black fourth graders continue to score 27% lower on these test than white fourth graders. According to NBCDI (2011), these numbers have a direct link to early childhood education and experiences. If parents, teachers, and others build the foundation for children right after birth, then the expectations and skill levels in black children will be higher or at level with their white peers. This article continued to discuss how black children could be successful in education and in life. One way to be successful is to hire more qualified, effective teachers for black children. These children should also have high-quality classroom instruction to achieve their goals. These children need teachers who understand their culture and are willing to establish and build a relationship with them; this increases trust and builds support between students and teachers. This article discussed family and community involvement and how parenting practices are linked to the gap in educational achievement goals.

There were so many other good highlights in this article, please visit the link in the references to read more information related to this article. It was very informative and appropriate for educators, parents, and administrators.

I have learned so many things this week related to issues and trends of children and families. As educators, we must realize that we can change the fate of children and families if we advocate for all of the things these families need to survive. Some of the most devastating things for children are not having access to food, clothing, shelter, and a good education. All of these issues negatively affect the overall well-being of children and families. In our early childhood environments, we will encounter all types of children and families. Some of them will be diverse in culture and ability, some of them will be diverse in language, and some of them will be diverse in social and economic backgrounds. It is our duty as early childhood professionals to make a difference in the lives of others. Let us be that voice and support the families of the world need to improve their overall quality of life.

This blog was not intended to discriminate against any race or culture. It was posted to increase the awareness of the issues and trends children and families face each day. I hope you find pleasure in reading this information because, it will allow you to make an informed decision on what you should do as a parent, educator, or administrator to help all children achieve their educational and lifelong goals.

Reference

National Black Child Development Institute (2011). A framework that works: how prek-3rd can be a smart strategy for black kids, families and communities. Retrieved from http://www.nbcdi.org/sites/default/files/resource-files/A%20Framework%20That%20Works.pdf