Raising our Children to Thrive

"Mommy, will you take me to school? Mommy, you're taking taking me to school! You can take me to school—" Nia, my three year old continued on in anticipation of her first day back to pre-school. The excitement was contagious as we giggled and chatted together about what this school year will be like.

"When children thrive through their first five years, they are poised to be strong lifelong learners, earners and engaged citizens." Press Release from Mayor Menino, United Way, Community Partners Launch 'Thrive in Five.' I am enthused at the goal of this partnership and what it will do for children and families in Boston. The more support and knowledge parents are given the better it will be for their children. After reading further into ‘Thrive in Five,’ how “Research shows that children’s earliest experiences actually shape the architecture of the brain – the foundation of neural circuits upon which future learning, behavior and health depend, creating either a resilient or fragile foundation for learning and health” it re-ignited my excitement of parenting and making deliberate and purposeful decisions in all aspects of our children’s life.

Preparing Nia for preschool, and in another seven months her two year old brother, Henry as well, is more than picking out trendy backpacks and brightly colored school supplies for our family. It's about making them feel loved, safe and supported and building a strong foundation that sets them up for learning and leading in today's competitive age. My views on on learning and discipline have been transformed and I’ve developed more patience with the children's "exploration" since discovering how crucial ages 1-3 are in brain and learning development. Any moment becomes a teachable moment in our family. Toys, cooking, outdoor play, watching the sky at night, and even yard work are opportunities we use for building and strengthening our family bond and teaching our children.

It has really taken a collective effort for us to arrive at this point and new challenges arise regularly. Truly, it takes a village to raise a child and I’m excited to see ‘Thrive in Five’ is building a roadmap that involves public and private sectors to make this happen.