My Role as an Advocate

  When I reflect on what motivated me to become an advocate it was during my early childhood courses before this program.  I am not sure what class it was exactly, but at some point I realized how much change is needed before children enter school or pre school.  There is not enough help, programs, or funding to support the adequate growth and development of children and families.  It was then my thoughts started gravitating towards how I can affect more children and families and advocating is a way.  I have been teaching for seven years and I have often wondered what lives would be like for some of the children had they had different opportunities.  I did not know there were so many programs and opportunities available for children and families.  I want to make a difference so more children are not going through the hardships that I see daily with some of the children I teach.  

Acknowledging and fostering advocacy efforts at the micro and macro level is important because there many details and efforts that go into a larger picture.  There are many professionals that can focus on different aspects of an advocacy issue and come together to help fight for the children.  

  

  To become a leader on early childhood issues is to have a relationship with the community and its members.  Once the community trusts its leader, the more followers and support the leader will gain.  Having strong communication skills, being optimistic, and relationship skills that help to maintain trust.

  To become a state leader on early childhood issues takes the same characteristics as a community leader, but also being aware of what state laws and regulations are necessary for all programs and centers.  As a state leader it is also necessary to be able to communicate and have relationships with other state and national organizations and law makers.  Knowing what works in other states and being well versed with different programs will help make influenced decisions in the state. Also, I feel that being knowledgeable of the issues in the state are essential because as a leader I would have to know what I am advocating for and how I propose to solve the issues.  There needs to be goals in place and solutions proposed.  

  Being personable and well liked and trusted are key character traits to building a successful following of people who will support the leader.  Building key relationships within the community and then networking for ideas and resources are essential.  Rallying other advocates for similar reasons will help network your voice and create a cohesive group of supporters. 
  Being confident, personable, well spoken, goal orientated, and aware create a strong leader that many people will follow and support.  Raising awareness starts by getting supporters to support the programs and regulations that are being advocated for.