ERIC Number: EJ808228
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2006-Jul
Pages: 6
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-0736-8038
EISSN: N/A
Ensuring a Bright Future for Babies: How to Advocate Effectively for Infants and Toddlers
Rappaport, Debbie M.; Yarbrough, Karen
Zero to Three, v26 n6 p20-25 Jul 2006
Rappaport and Yarbrough describe three steps for early childhood professionals to take toward becoming effective advocates for infants and toddlers: (1) gather information about the public policy process; (2) learn to communicate effectively about the early years; and (3) build and maintain relationships with allies who can make policy decisions. Early childhood professionals can take part in legislative advocacy, which involves dealing with legislation directly. Alternatively, they can get involved in the public policy process via administrative advocacy (i.e., responding to how the government implements programs created by the legislature). Amending administrative rules and regulations can be a less strenuous process than changing the laws themselves. It is also important to equip policymakers and other champions of infants and toddlers with appropriate language so they can communicate the message clearly to their constituents and a broader audience. Furthermore, the way ideas are framed shapes how audiences think about infants and toddlers, so it is imperative to couch issues in an appropriate, beneficial manner. Effective working relationships with advocates, policymakers, program administrators, and community leaders are at the heart of producing policy changes. For example, develop relationships with influential champions and the media to spearhead policy efforts. Organizing meetings with these individuals in their offices or inviting them to see your program is an excellent way to cultivate a good connection.
Descriptors: Advocacy, Infants, Toddlers, Public Policy, Legislation, Early Childhood Education, Interpersonal Communication, Interpersonal Relationship
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Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Descriptive
Education Level: Early Childhood Education
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A