Becoming a Village and Growing Together

Before the new school year begins, let’s consider the ways that we can come together in our communities to nurture all our children. The proverb “It takes a village to raise a child” reminds us that parents and caregivers, families, educators and community members are all essential in children’s support ecosystem. Parents and caregivers are children’s first teachers and play a significant role in shaping their perspectives. Learning for Justice offers our Growing Together: For Children and Families series, which includes stories and activities to cultivate the social justice values that honor our humanity.

And to build community partnerships, “Becoming a Village” offers a model that emphasizes a liberatory, whole-child approach and collective effort to nurturing all our children. Author Joy Masha, a program manager at the Children’s Defense Fund (CDF) Freedom Schools, explains that: “Parents and caregivers support one another and serve as co-educators and community advocates in collaboration with children, school and community. Essentially, families become as integral to the school as the institution itself is integral to the community. Some of the benefits of this collaboration are improved academic outcomes, enhanced social and emotional support, healthier school environments and neighborhoods, and strengthened community ties.”

Explore and share these resources to support the well-being of all our children and build a more just and inclusive future together.