On Sunday morning I sat with my family at Starbucks and read the Florida-Times Union. Of course, I didn’t read it cover to cover, leisurely… I read the front page (then wiped my 3 year old’s nose), took a sip of coffee (tied a shoe, wiped up a spill, consoled said 3 year old), took another sip (more consoling), etc. However, I was able to read one disturbing article on the front page regarding what we are doing as a society to the young minds of children.
The article was titled “Battling the Enemies of Fertile Young Minds”, by Jeremy Cox. In this article he outlines struggles that some young mothers face, with poverty, abuse, lack of job market, family issues etc, and how it affects the children in their care. Some of the scenarios of these young mothers were beyond disturbing, such as the young mom who was raped while holding her young child in her arms. The author then goes on to outline what research has shown about how negative stimuli can affect the brain development of very young children. It was horrifying to say the least.
I believe this to be one of the main reasons I am so passionate about high quality, licensed child care. You, as day care providers, have the unique privilege and ability to influence young children when they are most vulnerable… when their little brains are developing, forming connections, and processing all the information that is fed to them in so many ways. If negative stimuli can destroy brain cells, just think what all of that love and compassion can do!
High quality child care can not only provide a comfortable, safe, and nurturing learning environment for the children, but peace of mind for the parents. As a working mom who had an AMAZING day care provider who poured her heart and soul into nurturing my children, I am eternally grateful for the gifts of love and wisdom my day care provider gave me and my children.
To all you day care providers out there, I salute you!
Bonnie McCormick RN, BSN
Day Care Professor
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