The Art of Advocacy for children

When I began my journey as an early childhood educator more than twenty five years ago, I entered a system that was quite different than it is today.  And while not the only influence, some of the biggest changes that have happened over that time have been driven by government policy. As an educator I followed suit and implemented these changes with little push back, even when I felt these changes were not good for children.  How could I push back? How could I actually make a difference? Despite wanting to truly advocate for the children I worked with, pushing for change felt unachievable and overwhelming.  So I continued to do what I could do on the ground, while still implementing policies that I didn’t really believe in.

Nine years ago I had an unfortunate family tragedy, and my efforts to seek justice for what had occurred led me to become involved in the inner workings of Parliament.  What I have discovered is that there are already good systems in place that allow members of the public to engage with Parliament in a way that can lead to change, and that local MPs want to represent their local constituents (people who live in the area they represent) views and will often openly help to ensure these views are heard within Parliament and by those who can make the change.

While the work I was engaged with in Parliament was not linked to early childhood education, the experience has given me an insight into how people can influence parliamentary policy, and I believe some of what I have learnt could help professionals to work together to become advocates for change to the education system that could have a positive impact on children. 

As we welcome a new Labor government, I believe there are real and tangible actions that early years professionals can take to help influence Parliament and policy, using the processes already in place. The strength of experience and knowledge that is held within the early childhood field is key in truly advocating for the children we work with. 

So how can this be done? 

Goals setting and planning

In order to achieve any change it is imperative that clear goals are set and there is a planned strategy. This can be done in the following ways:

• What is the change you want to achieve: With any change, it is key that there is a clear and specific goal on what needs to be achieved.  This may include a breakdown of steps needed in order to realise the change.

• Why do you think this change is needed:  Have a clear idea on why these changes are needed. Reflect on personal/professional experiences linked to this and also have evidence to back up why this change is better for children, using statistics to add weight to your rationale. 

• When is the right time: Is there a key time to engage with key people when change is more likely?  Are there new policies being explored in Parliament? Has there been some change in government roles? 

Networking/Community building

Connecting with specific people is an important step in taking your goals forward.  

• Who can make the change:  Be clear on who you want to influence to help achieve this change. If it’s a Parliamentary change, then you’ll want to be engaging with the Secretary of State for education, the Minister for early years and your local MP. 

• Connect:  Connect with and share your goals with others, including other organisations who share similar goals and also those who do not. Knowing what people believe and why, even when they oppose your views, is important to understand the landscape you’re working with.

Take action

This is a key step in order to achieve any change.  There are a number of actions that can be taken, which ones you choose to use will depend on personal choice and what you want to achieve. Examples include:

• Contact relevant MPs and Lords sharing your views on the subject.

• Follow up initial meetings with MPs to discuss what action they have taken.  

• Set up and/or sign petitions, these can often lead to a Parliamentary debate on the topic.

• Engage with media, this may take the form of writing articles for early childhood magazines/blogs etc, sharing comments on articles written, sharing your experiences/expertise with mainstream media, engaging with social media platforms relating to early years practice. 

When thinking about taking these actions as an individual, it can feel overwhelming and unlikely to lead to change.  However, when many small streams join, it can form a powerful river.  This is essentially what happens before any change occurs.  Most people work within the early childhood field because they have a love for children, and we often sit through and accept changes we know are not good for children. But there are prosocial actions we can take to push to have things changed, and make Parliamentarians aware of the views of people in the field, which allows us to truly advocate for children. 

Key takeaway

• Spend time planning and setting goals for the changes you want to see.

• Network and build connections with other people in the field, including those who oppose your ideas.

• Take action based on a strategic approach.

Critical considerations 

• Change can take time and energy, collaboration and allegiances are important to add strength and keep the wave going, while ensuring you do not burn out.