Resources for Educators and Children

In early learning settings, economic hardship may be navigated with a greater variety of resources. The Raising Children Network provides pragmatic tips on parenting when money is tight. ECA’s Inclusion Support Program helps educators in providing for vulnerable children. The AEDC Community Stories present case studies involving how communities deal with developmental vulnerability. Scholarships and mentoring are offered through The Smith Family’s Learning for Life program (Raising Children Network, 2023).

The world of children's books can go a long way in evoking empathy toward, and understanding of, the trials of families with little money. Those Shoes, by Maribeth Boelts, looks into a world where wants and needs are not alike. A Chair for My Mother, by Vera B. Williams, tells a story about saving money and getting help from friends. Homelessness is explored in Fly Away Home, by Eve Bunting, in a child-friendly manner. Gratitude and community connection are emphasized in Last Stop on Market Street, by Matt de la Peña (Clarke, 2016; de la Peña, 2015).