Belinda is a provider at Birdsall House in Kansas City and has lived in the KC Metro area for most of her life. She has been working as a provider for over ten years and has been with Birdsall House for eight of those years. Belinda is a current fellow with KWM and we are blessed to have her and her passion for helping children. Read more about Belinda below!
How did you become an advocate for early childhood education?
After working in the field for over 10 years, and becoming assistant director at Birdsall House, it became abundantly clear to me that there is a dire need not just for childcare in general, but for quality care that puts children and families first.
Why do you think it’s important to be an advocate as a provider?
It is no secret that childcare educators are overworked and underpaid, while being one of the most essential and important roles in our economy. This combined with the lack of available, quality childcare made it clear to me that the more voices we had advocating for our broken system, the better.
Why should Missouri invest more in child care and early education?
As we know, birth to five years old are the most critical years for brain development. If we are able to provide children and infants with the support and tools that they need to thrive in these years, it will set them up for success into adulthood. It is also crucial that parents should have the option to continue their chosen careers after having children and feel confident in the care being provided.
In one sentence, what does the ideal child care and early education system look like for Missouri families?
Prioritizing children and the people who care for them.
What is one thing you’ve learned about advocacy that you’d like to share with others?
Don’t be afraid to speak out and up about what you know is important.
Any additional comments?
It truly takes a village, and we are all in this together.