Last week, Memphis hosted the 57th annual Tennessee Association for the Education of Young Children conference.
Why School Reform Can't Ignore Poverty's Toll
October 18, 2011
Like most urban systems, Memphis City Schools have demonstrated the kind of achievement numbers that keep school reformers up at night. One in three students fail to graduate, and those who continue remain far behind by all achievement measures. Just 4 percent of seniors score well enough on entrance exams to qualify to take college-level courses without remedial work.
An Investment in Child Abuse Prevention Saves Money and Lives
October 10, 2011
We live in a very busy world. The idea of taking the time to learn about protecting children from child abuse may feel like just one more thing we don't have time to do. Especially if it feels like it isn't our problem. The truth is that child abuse in our community, whether in our own home, at our neighbor's house or in community settings, is like a toxin in the water supply. It affects us all.
Children Reflect Parental Behavior
October 5, 2011
Our children are mirrors, reflecting images of what happens around them. In addition to sharing genetic similarities with parents, they reflect the gestures, language, and interests of the adults in their lives. You'll notice your child holding a crayon just like Dad holds his pen, or using a phrase Grandma says often.
Several recent headlines sent shock waves throughout Memphis and Shelby County, but it was years earlier when the seeds were likely planted in the form of domestic violence that thwarted optimal brain development and put children at risk. We cannot effectively deal with youth violence until we deal decisively with domestic violence, because they are often links on the same chain.
JoeAnn Ballard spent her childhood as one of 45 foster children being raised by her great aunt and uncle in rural Mississippi. This experience turned out to be one of the best things to happen to her; saving her from an unhealthy home and showing her what love and care looked like.
