Reflections from HSH Implementation Director
Hope Starts Here began with a vision of Detroit as a city that puts young children and families first. This vision and resulting framework was informed by thousands of Detroiters. Many of whom are now actively engaged in implementation of this promise. As we approach the end of a full year of deep implementation, I find myself reflecting more and more.
How many more children may fall through the gap if we don’t more quickly improve outcomes?
Recently, I attended a virtual cello concert hosted by Detroit Champions for Hope. The cellist who goes by the stage name Okcello asked the group a question which resonated with me deeply perhaps due to my current pensive state. He challenged the group to wonder even amidst the civil unrest, pain, and disruption of our ‘normal’ due to Covid, “what will we create?”
This struck a chord because I recognize the power of creativity and know that out of chaos the very universe was created. And so, I pose this question to you as fellow Detroiters and those committed to this effort, What is the system for children and their families that we are committed to creating despite current and unforeseen challenges? Pushing Okcello question one step further, I ask, whether physically so or not, are we willing to let the children give birth to the mother and father in us who despite personal sacrifice or gain will do what is necessary to increase opportunities for and ensure the well-being of our children?
What becomes of these children eventually does affect us all, and the first eight years of a child’s life has a huge impact on their development. During this period, many changes occur as the child grows and develops in relation to being physically healthy, mentally alert, emotionally sound, socially competent, and ready to learn. This is due largely to the growth and many changes that are occurring as early as birth to two years especially in the brain which signals the functions of the rest of our body.
Babies and young children grow, learn, and develop rapidly and best when they receive love and affection, attention, encouragement, and mental stimulation, as well as nutritious meals and good health care. While these may sound like givens to the ears of some, the reality is that too many of our children’s basic needs aren’t being met to even give space and opportunity for further development and learning.
The ages and stages of development from infancy through age 8, which include the important transition from home to school, shape children’s future health, happiness, growth, development and learning achievement at school, in the family and community, and in life. The structures both at home and outside the home in support of surviving and thriving babies are many and often not coordinated. Issues of the accessibility, quality and affordability of early childhood care and education in Detroit are paramount.
So yes, the task at hand is a big one. Which may give rise to yet another question, can we create the early childhood system that children in Detroit really need? I believe that together we can.
Denise on behalf of Team Hope