Children need shelter, food, and love to be happy and healthy. A child ‘s wellbeing is also affected by their personality, their family and community. A child’s wellbeing impacts their learning and growth in all developmental areas. Larger systemic trends also have a direct impact on wellbeing. Describe factors that influence children’s wellness.
Considering the contexts in which children grow and develop
• Bronfenbrenner’s Ecological System Theory
Describe how these factors influence wellness.
Understanding the overarching challenges to children’s wellness
• Poverty (Page 12)
• Food insecurity
• Housing and homelessness
• Environmental health and safety
Describe how these factors influence wellness.
a. According to Sorte et al educators “must be advocates for addressing negative influences on children’s development and promoters for supporting children’s wellness.” (Page 16) Please come up with your own ideas when answering the questions below.
• What negative influences should be addressed? E.g., Homelessness
• What is one recommendation for progressive childcare policies? E.g., Provide affordable housing to families.
• Describe one strategy that can be used to make a difference in this area? E.g., Write a letter to the Minister Responsible for Housing
• How can you educate the public about this problem? E.g., Write a letter to the local newspaper.
• What groups and organizations can you join that advocate for the well-being of children in this area? E.g., Sources Advocacy, Housing and Prevention Services