My passions for children and families are to help prevent
child abuse primarily. Even though there are many programs and organizations
that work to raise awareness to child abuse and maltreatment, it is still occurring
far too often. I use my communication skills to talk with families about this
issue and educate others on how to handle difficult situations that may lead to
child abuse/maltreatment. I also have been fortunate to have had much training
on how to look for symptoms and signs of this issue with families and children.
Another topic that I am passionate about is breastfeeding. I
have done my own research for other courses on the topic and have been
fortunate enough to work alongside other early childhood professionals who are
just as passionate as I am and work to raise awareness of the numerous health
benefits for both mother and child. My knowledge about the topic has fueled my
abilities to assist mothers in difficulties with breastfeeding however; I still
seek more information every day.
I am fortunate to work for a program that supports both of
these passions of mine. Through my program I have been able to find other
community agencies that are also working toward the same advocacy issues and to
collaborate our efforts.
My passion for children and
families to live in a peaceful and healthy environment will help me in my
advocacy work. I believe that I have the ability to engage with many people
from diverse backgrounds through using effective communication and having an
open heart and mind. I also feel that my desire to continue to learn new
information will assist me in becoming a more effective advocate. I hope to
grow through finding new ways to work with others at both local and state
levels. To be an effective advocate I believe that I must use every opportunity
to voice my passions and raise awareness for the issues and topics I am working
for.
Terri,
ReplyDeleteKudos, to you for wanting to help prevent child abuse. This is an issue that has been affecting our children and families for a long time. I do believe that more needs to be done to help these children. I think more awareness programs need to focus on parental stress and how it can lead to them possibly injuring or even killing their children. Parental stress should not be overlooked, but instead taken seriously.
Terri, it is very interesting to me that you chose breastfeeding. I breastfed both my girls and am very proud that I did. It is amazing to me though how many times I was stopped or at the least stared at when I did feed my daughter. I was very discreet about where and when I fed her but still received opposition. It use to make me so angry and when I think about it still does. Breastfeeding is natural and wholesome and healthy.
ReplyDeleteTerri,
ReplyDeleteI have to agree with Priscilla, more attention needs to be paid to parental stress. Breastfeeding is an interesting topic. I know for my mom she breastfed me but was unable to breastfed my sister as her system could not tolerate it. I think as Elise already mentioned, it is a natural process that should not receive the ridicule as it does. Excellent choices, I hope you can continue to learn and grow as you pursue these topics of interest.