Michelle Lacroix, Norfeldt School
November 29, 2016
CEA’s Human & Civil Rights Commission Presented
HIDDEN IN PLAIN SIGHT: CHILDREN OF INCARCERATED PARENTS
A teacher – to – teacher book discussion of Ruby on the Outside with acclaimed author Nora Raleigh Baskin
“We read to know that we are not alone.” C.S. Lewis
Tuesday evening, I had the opportunity to learn along with educators from various parts of Connecticut. We listened to author, Nora Raleigh Baskins, graciously and passionately share her story. She is an amazing writer who makes a difference in the world through her stories.
Ms. Baskin spoke of her journey as a writer, researcher and how her books came to fruition.
She recognized one of her teachers as the person who inspired her, in a challenging time in her life, to write. She encourage the teachers present to be that that kind of teacher; to make the difference in a child’s life.
We learned that 2.2 million people in the United States are incarcerated, leaving 1 out every 25 children without a parent or parents.
Joy Haenlein, program director of CLICC, discussed her research around children of the incarcerated and her program that promotes communication, reduces anxiety and promotes literacy.
Resources:
Connecting through Literacy: Incarcerated parents, Children & Caregivers (CLICC)
http://www.idealist.org/view/nonprofit/sPkCgmJ3hKMD
Rehabilitation through the Arts
http://www.rta-arts.org/programs
Annie Casey Foundation
All Alone in the World by Nell Bernstein
Mothers of Bedford
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WxrwviqwyRo
Osbourne Bill of rights for children of incarcerated parents
http://www.osborneny.org/index.cfm
Hour Children
