I firmly believe in the wisdom of the statement above. The thought that these early years of a person's life shape how they will perceive and react to the world in throughout their adult lives is a powerful motivator in my career goals. My recent experiences as a classroom assistant in low-income preschools have been incredibly eye-opening. In comparison to other environments I have worked with kids, I can see jarring differences. We have all heard of the effects of urban poverty, homelessness, grossly understaffed and overworked teachers, lack of supplies, and the inappropriate cuts on educational funding and programs. However, I think that sometimes these become textbook ideas and news stories that we are either too busy, too distanced, or simply too resigned to do anything about. (And there is the big question of WHAT exactly can be done? A question which I am not prepared to discuss and argue at this point.) These thoughts have been at the forefront of my mind as I have become immersed in these environments and bond with these bright-eyed and vulnerable children. I am also wondering about the volunteer projects in Marrakech and the lives of the kids growing up there.

This post is archived under Kids, Random thoughts