As our state legislature deliberates over yet another budget surplus, we might take a moment to consider the role which early childhood educators can play as advocates for Minnesota s children. Like every other citizen of this state, we have a right to let our local legislators know how we wish to be represented. More importantly, as early childhood educators, we can have an additional impact because of our professional experiences, background and our interaction with parents, children and other people in our field.
Legislators have to make a number of decisions which affect Minnesota s children.
Unfortunately, they may not always have enough information. There will be a host of organizations and individuals who will speak out for children this session, but as normal citizens, with practical work experience with children, we can significantly strengthen these voices. The average legislator is besieged by representatives of various special interests asking them to vote one direction or another, but the opportunity to speak with a real person is rare, and when that person is from their home district it is even more powerful. They are there to represent you and your input may help them be more effective. Some people question which forms of communication are more effective.