child education – Jellybeans in the City

The Future of Childhood: A Call to Protect Children’s Rights in a Changing World

As the world confronts unprecedented challenges, the future of childhood hangs in the balance. UNICEF’s 2024 flagship report, The State of the World’s Children: The Future of Childhood in a Changing World, paints a stark picture of what lies ahead for children. Released on World Children’s Day, the report warns that if urgent action is not taken, the rights and well-being of future generations will be severely compromised.

The report highlights three megatrends—demographic change, climate and environmental crises, and breakthrough technologies—that will significantly shape the lives of children by 2050 and beyond. These global forces present both opportunities and challenges, but one thing is clear: the decisions made by world leaders today will determine the world that children inherit tomorrow.

A World of Crises: The Climate Challenge

Among the most pressing concerns is the climate crisis. 2023 marked the hottest year on record, and the report forecasts even worse conditions in the coming decades. By the 2050s, the number of children exposed to extreme heatwaves is expected to be eight times higher, while the risk of exposure to river floods and wildfires will increase by three and two times, respectively, compared to the early 2000s.

“Children are experiencing a myriad of crises, from climate shocks to online dangers, and these are set to intensify in the years to come,” said UNICEF Executive Director Catherine Russell. “The projections in this report demonstrate that the decisions world leaders make today—or fail to make—define the world children will inherit.”

The impact of these climate hazards will vary depending on a child’s age, health, socioeconomic status, and access to resources. A child with access to climate-resilient shelter, healthcare, and clean water will fare better than one without these essential resources. This stark divide underscores the urgent need for global action to protect vulnerable children, especially those in regions most affected by climate change.

Shifting Demographics: A Changing Global Landscape

The world’s demographic landscape is also changing rapidly. While the global population continues to grow, regions such as Sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia are projected to have the largest child populations by 2050. However, the share of children in the global population is expected to decline in every region. In Africa, for instance, children will make up less than 40% of the population by the 2050s, compared to 50% in the 2000s. In contrast, East Asia and Western Europe will see even sharper declines, with children comprising fewer than 17% of the population.

These shifts pose significant challenges. In some countries, the pressure to expand services for a large child population will intensify, while in others, governments will face the difficult task of balancing the needs of an aging population. These demographic changes will require careful planning and investment in services to ensure that all children receive the care, education, and support they need.

The Digital Divide: Promises and Perils of Technology

In the realm of technology, the rise of artificial intelligence (AI) offers both promise and peril. Today’s children are already interacting with AI embedded in apps, toys, virtual assistants, games, and educational software. But while these technologies hold the potential to revolutionize learning and play, the digital divide remains a significant barrier.

In 2024, over 95% of people in high-income countries have access to the internet, compared to just 26% in low-income nations. This gap means that many children in poorer regions are unable to access the digital tools and skills they need to thrive in an increasingly digital world. This lack of access is compounded by factors such as gender, socio-economic status, and language barriers, which further limit opportunities for some children.

However, the report also offers a glimpse of hope. Advances in education and public health over the past century have led to significant improvements in children’s lives. Life expectancy is projected to increase, and nearly 96% of children worldwide are expected to complete primary education by the 2050s, up from 80% in the 2000s.

A Path Forward: Centering Children’s Rights

The report emphasizes that addressing these challenges requires a renewed commitment to child rights, as outlined in the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child. UNICEF calls on world leaders to prioritize children’s well-being by investing in education, services, and resilient infrastructure, while also expanding climate resilience and ensuring safe digital access for all children.

“World Children’s Day is a moment for leaders to demonstrate their commitment to the rights and wellbeing of every child,” said Russell. “We can shape a better future for tomorrow’s children, and we have to get started today.”

This year’s World Children’s Day theme, “Listen to the Future,” encourages leaders to reflect on the world they want to leave behind. As part of the campaign, UNICEF invited children from around the globe to share their hopes and dreams for the future. Letters poured in from Gaza City, Haiti, Tanzania, and other places, expressing children’s wishes for a safe, healthy, and educated future—free from war and climate hazards.

The message is clear: the future of childhood depends on the actions we take today. We must act now to ensure that every child has the opportunity to thrive in a world that is safe, sustainable, and equitable.

As the report concludes, the choices we make in response to these megatrends will shape the world that tomorrow’s children inherit. The question remains: will we act in time to protect their future?

Rewritten from a recent press release.

ChildFund and SEAMEO INNOTECH launch localized social and emotional learning framework

In an ambitious move to transform education and bolster the emotional well-being of Filipino students, ChildFund Philippines, in partnership with Southeast Asian Ministers of Education Organization Regional Center for Educational Innovation and Technology (SEAMEO INNOTECH), has launched the country’s first localized Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) framework. This innovative initiative is set to resonate deeply with the cultural nuances of Filipino students in public schools, promising to foster holistic development and sustainable community involvement.

A Framework Rooted in Culture

The 2024-2027 SEL program is meticulously designed to reflect the unique cultural heritage of the Philippines. This framework aims to develop adaptable SEL curriculum models tailored to diverse cultural contexts. By engaging communities in the adaptation and implementation process, the program seeks to foster a sense of ownership and sustainability.

“We envisioned a localized approach engaging all stakeholders in the country – teachers, parents, and students,” said Anand Vishwakarma, Country Director of ChildFund Philippines. “This collaborative effort ensures the framework addresses the holistic development of both learners and educators, making it culturally relevant and impactful.”

Nurturing Humanity and Fellowship

Central to the SEL framework is the cultivation of “pagpapakatao” (being humane) and “pakikipagkapwa-tao” (fellowship), essential values that Education Specialist Marlene Floresca of ChildFund Philippines believes will help students become capable and self-trusting individuals. This competency framework equips teachers with the tools to better support students, fostering a more inclusive and supportive educational environment.

Dr. Leonor Magtolis Briones, Center Director of SEAMEO INNOTECH, emphasized the importance of community involvement. “The success of the SEL framework depends on the active involvement of teachers, along with parents and communities. Their participation ensures that the framework addresses the specific social and emotional needs of both learners and educators,” she said.

Early Development for Long-term Success

Starting SEL skills development early, from kindergarten and potentially even earlier, is crucial for long-term success. Dr. Grace Aguiling-Dalisay, President and CEO of the Center for Educational Measurement, highlighted the importance of assessing SEL skills alongside cognitive skills. “We are working with the education department to integrate these assessments into the SEL framework, ensuring evidence-based progress,” she noted.

From Pilot to Policy

Implementation of the framework will commence this year with a pilot program in select public schools to test its effectiveness. Following this, the framework will be integrated into school-wide practices and policies for students, educators, and non-teaching staff.

The Department of Education (DepEd), part of the technical working group that developed the framework, will endorse SEL modules accessible via an e-learning platform. Teachers and school heads will complete these courses and earn professional development points through the National Educators Academy of the Philippines and the Professional Regulation Commission.

A Pillar of the MATATAG Agenda

The SEL framework supports the DepEd’s MATATAG Agenda: Bansang Makabata, Batang Makabansa, which focuses on promoting the well-being of learners and supporting teachers to perform better. It will be implemented across the K-12 curriculum and expanded to mental health programs in schools nationwide.

“This SEL framework responds to the call for an education system that imparts knowledge and cultivates the social and emotional foundation children need to build their dreams, equipping them beyond what books can teach,” said Dr. Dexter Galban, Assistant Secretary for Operations of the DepEd.

Community Voices

To ensure the framework is truly representative, ChildFund and its partners conducted interviews with K-12 and Alternative Learning System students across various regions, including Metro Manila, Apayao, Negros Occidental, North Cotabato, Sulu, and Tawi-Tawi. Their insights have been invaluable in shaping a framework that meets the diverse needs of Filipino students.

For those interested in getting involved or learning more about the SEL competency framework, please visit ChildFund Philippines.

Details provided in a recent press release.

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Enrolling Your Child in School: A helpful handbook for first-time parents

Wow, your little one is now ready for school – congratulations!

Enrolling your child in school is a significant milestone, and you can just imagine how the whole experience can be both exciting and overwhelming. As you embark on this unfamiliar terrain, do keep in mind these helpful tips and friendly guidance to ensure a smooth and successful enrollment process for you and your child.

But first, let’s answer some common questions for parents whose kids are entering school age:

Can I enroll my child in school without a birth certificate in the Philippines?

A birth certificate is a crucial document required for school enrollment in the Philippines. It serves as proof of your child’s identity and age, and schools typically need it for their records. If you don’t have a birth certificate yet, don’t worry! You can obtain one from the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) or the Local Civil Registry where your child was born.

Your child’s birth certificate is an important document to have, especially when enrolling your child to school for the first time. It’s essential to get the process of acquiring official copies of this document started early to avoid any last-minute hassles.

What age can a child start school in the Philippines?

In the Philippines, the official age requirement for kindergarten enrollment is usually five years old. However, some schools might have flexibility for children who are just a few months younger or older. As a parent, you have the freedom to choose what you believe is best for your child based on their readiness and development.

If your child is slightly younger, you might consider enrolling them in a pre-school or early childhood program to help ease the transition into formal schooling. On the other hand, if your child is a bit older and has already shown signs of readiness, you can explore schools that have age-appropriate classes for them.

What do parents need to prepare when enrolling their child in school for the first time?

To ensure a seamless enrollment process, here’s a handy checklist of essential items and steps you’ll need to gear up for:

Gather the necessary documents. Make sure you have your child’s birth certificate, vaccination records, and any other identification documents required by the school.
Research and choose the right school. Consider factors such as the school’s location, curriculum, extracurricular activities, and facilities. A school visit or orientation can give you a feel for the environment and help you make an informed decision.
Emotional preparation. Preparing your child emotionally for this new chapter is just as important as the practical aspects. Talk to your child about starting school, share positive experiences, and reassure them that it’s a fun and exciting place to learn and make friends.

Preparing ahead for your child’s enrollment

To help you and your little one stay organized and ready before the big day, follow these tips for a stress-free enrollment:

Create a checklist. Compile a list of all the items your child will need, such as school supplies, uniforms, and a backpack. Some of these may be available in the school or in stores outside the campus. Tick off items as you purchase them to avoid missing anything.
Arrange school visits. Reach out to the school to schedule a visit or inquire about orientation sessions. This will allow your child to familiarize themselves with the new surroundings and ease any anxiety they might have.
Establish routines. In the weeks leading up to school, gradually adjust your child’s daily routine to mimic a school schedule such as waking up early, homework or study time and limiting time spent watching TV or using electronic devices. This will help them adapt more easily when school starts.

Enrolling your child in school is an exciting and important step in their journey of learning and growth. As first-time parents, the mix of emotions you might be experiencing is perfectly understandable. Remember that you’re not alone, and with proper preparation, your child’s transition to school can be a positive and enriching experience.

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