Childhood Poverty Research and Policy Centre’s

The alternative I chose was Childhood Poverty Research and Policy Centre’s. The importance of childhood poverty is not always acknowledged by policy makers. Assumptions are often made that policies that are good for adults households should be good for girls and boys of any age. This can often be the case, but not always. Sometimes children (and different children) need more directive strategies that identifies with their needs and rights to survival, protection, and development to be able to participate. Children need a policy that addresses their shorter-term situation even when policies are aimed at long-term changes is put into action (Childhood Poverty). 

One  insight I have gained from this site is the vast amount of children and their families living in or at risk of chronic poverty (poverty that lasts for years or generations).This life threaten number of families experiencing poverty in different ways continues to grow. Some of the most important causes of childhood poverty are economics. My next insight I learned financial growth does not necessarily reduce poverty. To reduce poverty it should be equitably distributed rather than maintaining or creating wealth gaps between rich and poor.

Supportive families and communities can often shelter children from the worst effects of poverty, as can dedicated public action to protect children and families (Childhood Poverty).    Another insight would be to change public attitudes to promote equality of, and investment in, particular children, such as girls or children ethnic groups, makes it a critical situation. However, the absolute lack of resources facing many families and governments “means that action on these fundamental causes cannot be ignored in favor of cheaper and easier awareness rising’ measures” (Childhood Poverty).

Well-designed and implemented programs should be directly aimed at improving the wellbeing of poorest in society and those people who are vulnerable to poverty and its effects are very important.  All people should have access to good quality, accessible and affordable (If at all possible free) primary health care, education and early childhood development programs are imperative for wiping out childhood poverty (Childhood Poverty).    

 Childhood Poverty Research and Policy Centre’s page Retrieved from

http://www.childhoodpoverty.org/