Sharing Web Resources

• What specific section(s) or information seemed particularly relevant to your current professional development?

The World Forum is having a world conference that focuses on early care and education.  It is scheduled for May 6-9 of 2014 in San Juan, Puerto Rico and I have very interested in attending it.  They held a global leadership conference last November in Miami.  http://worldforumfoundation.org/wf/wp/current-work/upcoming-events/2014-world-forum/

• Which ideas/statements/resources, either on the website or in an e-newsletter, did you find controversial or made you think about an issue in new ways?

I didn't know that the US has not ratified the UN Convention on the Rights of Children.  I must say I’m too is shocked that they haven’t committed to the promoting, protecting, and preserving the rights of children world wide and especially within our country.  Learning of ways that we can help encourage our country to do so, through legislation and advocating it can be done.  http://worldforumfoundation.org/wf/wp/initiatives/childrensrights/convention-on-the-rights-of-the-child/

• What information does the website or the e-newsletter contain that adds to your understanding of how economists, neuroscientists, or politicians support the early childhood field?

From a politician perspective, the World Forum Foundation challenges leaders to advocate for improving the lives of young children around the world.  The WFF helps them become more effective in their leadership role and improve the quality of child care services and education that they oversee or provide.  It integrates with economists by looking at the short term and long term goals in relation to early childhood development and the economy.  By bettering these children/families lifestyles, we are bettering the world/economy.  From the neuroscientists perspective, if WFF meets their goals and complete their mission then they will be improving the mental health and well being of these children and families as well.

• What other new insights about issues and trends in the early childhood field did you gain from exploring the website or e-newsletter?

There are several initiatives available that can fit the needs, passion, or time constraints of any individual who wants to become a partner, sponsor, and or volunteer to help accomplish WFF’s mission for improving the lives of all children.  Some initiatives focuses on teaching tools and resources available for educators, parents, and/or public.  Other initiatives focus on children with special needs or health care issues.  Again, there are plenty of ways to get involved or to use your background, education, or experience to help meet the goals of WFF.  http://worldforumfoundation.org/wf/wp/initiatives/