Based on my experience, I can say that being a good listener requires time to pay attention to what the children are interested in. It is not only to talk about what their favorite color is, or favourite ice-cream flavor is, but also to have complex conversations with them about situations that happen outside the classrooms. For example, one child from the daycare was waiting in front of the window to see the garbage truck and when it arrived near the school, the child told me “When I grew older, I would like to drive a truck like this.” 

Based on that conversation, I realized that it was the perfect time to bring activities about community helpers and show them how these people help our city in Dawson Creek.  

It is well known that children grow emotionally, intellectually, and physically through both: their relationships and through their community. They might find their community in the daycare, at home, on the playground, or anywhere else. For children, community involvement and engagement produce benefits in their lives because it gives them a sense of belonging and it is crucial to the building of their own identity.  

But when how and where can I create a space in which they can be allowed to participate, to think and to discover in their unique ways outside the classroom and be connected to the community? I am still in the process of doing my best to support and advocate for the children´s rights.  

 

Communities and governments will work in partnership to affirm children as citizens who are valued members of their communities and contributors to their societies. Adults will work to create a space where pride of languages and cultures are cultivated, and in which children can take up social and traditional responsibilities. 

As part of their efforts to understand, value, and accept responsibility for promoting early learning, all levels of government and all communities will work together to nurture and support children and families, and to support parents, grandparents, and other family members in their efforts to promote children’s learning and overall well-being.  

So, what if we start acknowledging children as active citizens that can change the world positively? 

I will be looking forward to working with all of you to give children a better future.