Lidya Henok’s Post

Today, we celebrate Juneteenth – a day that commemorates the end of slavery in the United States more than two years after the signing of the Emancipation Proclamation. Juneteenth honors the promise of our nation, even when change is slow to come, and the pace of progress is frustrating.   As a mother first as well as CDO for Save the Children US, Juneteenth is also a reminder that, although we’ve come far as a country, it still remains up to all of us to build the world we want to leave for children everywhere. If you are interested in talking to the children in your life about the holiday, here is a list of incredible books to consider: https://bit.ly/4eg7IAr

It's been 100 years since the birth of the Geneva Declaration of the Rights of the Child, authored by Save the Children International's founder Eglantyne Jebb. This visionary and bold stance has not only enabled the progress of young people everywhere; personally it gave me the language and framework to cultivate my passion and do my part in bettering our world. However, there is still a long way for us to go where children's lives are valued equally, EVERYWHERE. https://lnkd.in/dQatYiy4

On this World Children’s Day, let’s celebrate the boundless potential of children and recognize the role we all play in shaping their future. Education is the most powerful tool we can provide to empower children. It opens doors to opportunities, nurtures creativity, and builds resilience. A well-educated child today becomes a responsible and innovative leader tomorrow. Let’s work together to ensure every child has access to quality education and a safe, supportive environment to grow and succeed. Investing in children is investing in a brighter, better world for all. #WorldChildrensDay #InvestInEducation #ChildrenAreTheFuture #QualityEducation"

Juneteenth is a vital day in American history, commemorating the emancipation of enslaved African Americans. It's a time for celebration, reflection, and education, especially for our younger generations. But how can we approach these conversations with young children in a way that's both informative and age-appropriate? The early childhood education team at the Smithsonian's National Museum of African American History and Culture has created a fantastic resource guide to support young children's understanding and celebration of Juneteenth. This guide includes: Talking Tips: Practical advice on discussing slavery and freedom with children in a way that considers their age and development. Activities for Hope & Action: Engaging activities that inspire young minds to think about freedom, justice, and how they can contribute to a better future. Children's Book & Online Resource Recommendations: A curated list of books and websites that make learning about Juneteenth fun and informative. Empowering our children with knowledge and understanding is crucial for building a more just and equitable society. Let's celebrate Juneteenth together and inspire the next generation! Visit the NMAAHC website: nmaahc.si.edu/juneteenth to access these resources and start meaningful conversations with your children about Juneteenth. #Juneteenth #BlackHistory #EarlyChildhoodEducation #LearningThroughPlay #SocialJustice #EmpoweringKids #ColorBraveKids

"Barriers, values, and perseverance." 💪 These three words capture the strength and resilience of parents like Consuelo Hernández, a proud alum of Familias Latinas por la Educación. Through support like yours, we’re equipping Latino families with the tools to overcome barriers, champion their children’s education, and build brighter futures for generations to come. 🌟 Be part of this transformative work—make a gift today to help us expand our impact in 2025: https://hubs.la/Q02_hHpc0

The quote highlights the importance of recognizing children as unique individuals with their own thoughts, feelings, and potential. It emphasizes treating children with respect, acknowledging their qualities, and allowing them to grow independently. In a society where children's voices are gaining importance, it encourages creating a supportive environment for their development. Jess Lair's words resonate with parents, educators, and caregivers, inspiring us to empower and nurture children's identities. Through quotes like this, awareness is raised about respecting children's autonomy and the importance of creating a nurturing environment for them to reach their full potential. Let's reflect on this message and consider better ways to support the children in our communities.

Check out Jana Boddy, as she advocates for kindergarten classrooms rich in play! You can read more about her in the Fall issue of Young Children.

Celebrating Independence Day by becoming instruments of learning is a great way to honor the spirit of freedom and empowerment. 1. Share knowledge: Teach someone a new skill or share your expertise with others. 2. Learn something new: Acquire a new skill or hobby to celebrate the joy of learning. 3. Mentor someone: Guide and support someone who needs guidance or mentorship. 4. Read and share: Read books or articles on topics like freedom, empowerment, and social change, and share your insights with others. 5. Engage in discussions: Participate in conversations about social issues, freedom, and empowerment to raise awareness and inspire change. 6. Support education: Donate to or volunteer with organizations that work towards providing education to underprivileged communities. 7. Empower others: Help someone in need, offer support, and be an ally to those who are marginalized or oppressed. By becoming instruments of learning, we can celebrate Independence Day in a meaningful way and work towards creating a more empowered and equitable society. Dr. Chirag Rathod

The majestic Lake Huron and the countless pristine rivers that cross this land are the playgrounds and backyards of many Indigenous children. Your children may explore these natural creations during summer vacation, returning home filled with stories, and experiences. But not long ago, countless Indigenous children were forcibly removed from their playground and homes, taken far away to residential schools. As parents, we cherish the moment our children come back to us, safe and growing. For too many Indigenous families, that moment never came. Many children never returned to their Native Lands. The word 'graduation' was never meant for them. Instead of classrooms filled with encouragement, creativity, and growth, Indigenous children faced isolation, physical punishment, and emotional trauma. They were stripped of their language, culture, and identity—punished for speaking their mother tongue, forced to abandon the traditions passed down from their ancestors. Many also faced malnutrition and disease, while others were physically and emotionally broken. For countless Indigenous children, there was no going home to their majestic backyards. Some never saw their families again, lost to the atrocities committed in these institutions. Others carried lifelong scars—visible and invisible—formed in a place that should have been a sanctuary for learning. As we reflect on this National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, we remember the children who never made it home, and those who survived, forever changed. The legacy of residential schools is not a distant memory—it continues to shape the lives of Indigenous communities today. While we nurture our own children to thrive and dream, we must remember the generations of Indigenous parents who were denied the simple joy of watching their children grow. Let us honour the resilience of those who endured, and commit to a future where truth is spoken, and where #truthandreconciliation is not just an aspiration, but a shared responsibility backed with action we all carry forward.

In Native communities, child care is more than a service—it’s a vital connection to culture, community, and future generations. For those who lead this work, it’s a calling that goes beyond supporting children’s development; it’s about embedding our history, values, and traditions into the very fabric of early education. The stories in our latest blog showcase three dedicated leaders in Tribal early childhood development who, in their unique ways, are fostering environments where Native children, families, and communities can thrive. https://lnkd.in/gZkHxYy6